CONSIDERATIONS CONCERNING Free-Schools, As settled in ENGLAND.  
Printed at the THEATER in OXFORD; and are to be had there. And in London at Mr Simon Millers at the sign of the Star near the West end of S. Paul's Church. Anno 1678.   

Imprimatur.  
HENRICUS CLERKE Vice-Cancel. Oxon.  
May 25. Anno Dom. 1677.   

To the Reverend Dr. HENRY CLERKE Precedent of Magdalene College, AND Vicechancellor of OXFORD. To the Worshipful Dr. THO. BOUCHIER, King's Professor of the Civil Law in the same University.  
Much Honoured Patrons,  
THE Subject of this Enquiry low in itself, and accordingly apt to be depressed, is yet a part of this State not altogether inconsiderable, since it hath formerly engaged the concern of Personages great for Parts and Quality. Only that Problem must needs have somewhat Topical in it, upon which able men, and well-affected, and on both sides in earnest, are divided; though, perhaps, unequally: the practice of some few who had managed their own affairs with discretion, and whose good meaning is not doubted, bearing up against the declared sense of many of like unquestionable Prudence. This address in a Cause conjectural and prejudged by Popular Fame, being devested of other Authority from the Reporter then what the matter furnishes, can only hope for a Reception, as upon trial it shall approve itself to you; before whose impartial Determination, those ill-grounded prejudices, which have, for these not few years, averted many charitable intentions for the encouragement of learning, will abate.  
Reverend Sir, That which gave occasion to this small discourse received hopes of life from the Right Reverend Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells, at that time our Vicechancellor, in whom, without respect to this instance, was a Prudence watchful against surreption: a judgement known to be stable: backed with Courage, as being the result of his own clear reasonings. He therefore is advanced to an Honourable Government in the Church. Suffer now with the Service of the Author, the Patronage of this Work to devolve upon yourself. In the Universities are helps of Study, Examples of accurate performance. The Favours of Oxford to me great, as undeserved, not obscure. All Motives from without command an humble Deference of Honour eminently to you, which your own inward worth invites. Give yourself the importunity with patience to glance over this piece, and allow some of the imperfections to difficulties to my present circumstances insuperable: which difficulties, upon a nearer Review, may give way to a right understanding through your favourable acceptance.  
Nor may I Worshipful Sir, without due Veneration tender these Papers to your Perusal. Provisions for Schoolmasters while Ecclesiastical Benefices, for Students in the University while Portions of Tithes lying originally in the Canon-Law, before what more competent Judge can they justify their Reason? The Privileges of Students are there most amply deduced: with us in England laid up in Charters through the Royal Indulgence: Their Revenues indeed fenced by the Statutes of the Realm, Whatever Court take the cognisance of School-causes, let them prove their claim by tenderness to the interested: you are more Zealous for Justice then enlarged Jurisdiction. Thus you do right to that Faculty, which managed with such Knowledge, Prudence, and Integrity must reconcile Commerce with Church-Judicature; and by Authority justified from the strongest Reason happily advance all the ends of right Government.  
Many are the Blessings vouchsafed to this place: among the chief of which we thankfully acknowledge a prudent Magistracy: wholesome Laws and Statutes: intent Exercise of Discipline: administration of Justice tempered, but not corrupted, with Mercy. Reverend Sir, These Genial Influences of your unwea'rid Cares, cherish the Studies of Oxford: propagate a lasting honour on your memory: and lay up for you the blessing of many Orators. Give me leave from sense of particular duty to add, increase of Happiness on both your Persons to be the unfeigned Prayer of  
Your most obedient Servant Christopher Wase.   

The Analysis.  

1. The scope of the Work.  
2. Education granted universally necessary.  
3. Learning doubted whether universally useful.  
4. Some Learning argued universally necessary.  
5. The good understanding between Learning and Trade.  
6. Schools necessary. Free-Schools advantageous to the public.  
7. erected by Heathens.  
8. Catechistical Schools in the Primitive times.  
9 The Congregation of Canons under the Fathers.  
10. Cathedral and Parochial Schools of Christianity in the Germane Empire.  
11. Since the Council of Trent, Seminaries.  
12. Upon the English Reformation Free-Schools.  
13. necessary to the subsistence of the Church.  
14. as left by K. Henry 8.  
15. as under Edw. 6. and Q. Mary.  
16. as it proceeded under Q. Elizab.  
17. since the Q. represented too many.  
18. Many Free-Schools necessary to this Church.  
19 useful to the State in Law.  
20. in Physic and divers other Professions.  
21. Many Scholars diverting to no Faculty, admitted inconvenient.  
22. Scholars in England not proved too many from the late Differences, nor present Divisions.  
23. nor from the discontent of others.  
24. nor from the many Schools.  
25. nor from divers thence highly preferred,  
26. Scholars in England probably not too many.  
27. Free-Schools probably not too many.  
28. Schools how far in equity free.  
29. Church and Schools, with Empire flourishing, encouraged; decaying, neglected.  
30. An instance that there is room for new Foundations in some places of England.  
31. Free-Schools would be cherished by augmentation of the Master's wages.  
32. by further Exhibitions to Scholars.  
33. would not be deserted by the Gentry.  
34. have not all of them been declined by the Nobility.  
35. Country Free-Schools somewhere improvable by having their Patronage annexed to some House in the University.  
36. consist in a right understanding between Town and Master.  
37. advantaged by their enfeoffement●  
38. Orders.  
39 Catechising.  
40. Special and General Visitors.  
41. Library.  
42. Writing-Schools to be kept within the esteem due.  
43. The Conclusion.    

CONSIDERATIONS concerning FREE-SCHOOLS.  

§. 1.  
THERE is an opinion commonly received, that the Scholars of England are over-proportioned to the preferments for lettered Persons. Hereupon the Constitution of Free-Schools cometh to be questioned, as diverting those, whom Nature or Fortune had determined to the Plough, the Oar, or other Handicrafts, from their proper design, to the study of Liberal Arts, and even Divinity itself. But the multiplying these Foundations is yet higher represented as dangerous to the Government. These jealousies have gained upon the Prudent, the Powerful, and, not the least, upon the Scholar: as indeed allegations of such consequence deserve not to be slighted; when proceeding from 
a The L. Verulam Advice to the King touching Mr. Suttons estate. Bacon's Resuscitation.  men of Authority, and published in Books by 
a Francis Osborne Esq; Advice to a Son. Edition 7. 1673.▪ Present State of England. Edition 9 1676.  repeated Impressions they have passed into a constant Fame. Schools, a name against which many have an Antipathy carrieth in it, at the best, an unpleasing notion of restraint. Free-Schools sound mean, and illiberal: yet had been fafe in their contemt. This charge admitted, if they escape present Suppression, or Diminution, they must nevertheless lie under the perpetual displeasure of the Magistrate, more grievous than Dissolution itself. Besides, an Imputation laid on the judgement of former Founders leaves small encouragement to the Devout Rich to dispose their charity upon a subject avowed unnecessary, or suspected by the state. Now because the public Peace, and increase of Commerce are desirable to any Nation; and Parents, in particular, make it a principal concern, that their children be brought up to sound principles, and employment, which may be hopeful of an honest livelihood, it may be convenient to call under examination whether the Free Grammar Schools of England be so notoriously multiplied beyond their occasion, as is demanded we should believe; if first their usefulness can be evinced to reasonable satisfaction.   

§. 2.  
It is agreed on all parts, that Education is absolutely due to man, either as in his imperfect or corrupt estate. Did not our early follies require discipline and restraints, yet knowledge is Gradual, and Habits of good, not at once contracted. Add hereto snares and discouragement from abroad; the necessity of nurture and manuduction in a ●ight and steady course, especially for those of unripe judgements, and in the slippery paths of youth is yet more evident. Good institution prevents or reforms vice; nor doth it improve particulars only, but seasons Families, and communities: whereby it mightily promotes the common Peace and Prosperity both of Church and State.   

§. 3.  
Now this wholesome Breeding allowed necessary for all, so far as it respects those that are born in a lower condition, some would have understood only what may train them up to work; for as to what is commonly called Learning, and which would engross the name of Education, the same effects either on Policy or Religion are not so universally accorded, to belong to the general propagation of it. There are places and have been times (these observe) abounding with a people very devout, and tractable to all commands of superiors, that ●ever s●te years at School, have heard few sermons, nor were ever trusted with reading the Bible. 
a Advice to a Son. A too universally dilated Learning hath been found upon Trial in all Ages no fast friend to Policy, or Religion; being no less ready to discover blemishes in the one, than Incongruities in the other.  Light is indeed pleasant, but in its full lustre scarce suited to our weaker sight; discovers blemishes in others, even the most beautiful objects, disturbs rest in all, & in what regions it makes the longest stay, is there accompanied with least heat: the Scythians ignorance being found more innocent than the Athenians knowledge. Discourse and Reading entertain, but working supports life. Arts and labour are the poor man's Indieses: the surest fond of a Nation: the inexhaustible Mine of Princes. Trade is that stock from whence not only private necessities are plentifully supplied, but also the public charge defrayed, and a portion by the thankful separated for uses truly charitable, in a just and pious offering. 
b Epicurus in his B. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 approves of reading and writing, though he seem to impugn the learning all other Sciences. Sextus Empiricus adversus Mathemat. B. 1. Ch. 6.  Letters indeed may without much difficulty be admitted as to the faculty of reading, and writing, for thus far they minister to commerce to which all Arts and Labour in their issue refer. But to make a Profession of teaching obsolete Languages, Poetical Fancies, or, what hath more appearance of gravity, the Art of Suiting colourable Arguments, whereby to hold any question in matters sacred or civil eitherwaies indifferently: to set up Schools throughout a Land to this purpose, and by rewards take off the Youth from following Labour to sedentary studies, 
a Lucan. desuntque manus poscentibus arvis. Hath been to this purpose long since quoted.  while the fields (say they) want hands to till them: is this a benefit to the public, or grievance? to be encouraged or redressed? For if the providence of the state hath thought fit at times, and places by sumptuary Laws to limit the Rich in spending their own; with much more reason doth the Government take cognisance, whether such as have no visible estate for their support, take to some calling.   

§. 4.  
Here it may be seasonable to interpose, whether there be not a General as well as Particular calling. All ages, sexes, ranks, relations in every condition, all capacities, lie under some Duty towards God and Man. Now that any Persons can be too early instructed in this Duty or too often admonished of it, that any Nation can be too universally learned in the laws of well-living, would be positions hard to be conceived, were they not the Dictates of safe Guides, men reputed wise and honest. Particular callings may through different Providences, at least in the timely retreats of old Age from business, be decently laid down; but the General runs parallel with life. This regulates the better part of man, and looks forward to eternity.  
Now could it be made out that this duty required of us were a common notion, spontaneous in our Nature and sufficiently clear in all its parts to the light of our reason, in its present condition, there were less need of teaching. Then might the scriptures without much danger remain unsearched: the Preacher betake himself to some calling necessary, and beneficial to the Community: and Schools for Catechising to better account, be converted into Work-Houses. Indeed morality, the Law written in our hearts needed not to have been learned out of Books: it was to man in his first institution Catholic Religion; and however those Characters be defaced, remains inseparable from the rational Nature.  
But the Doctrine of Faith being an engrafted word, not from nature, but by culture, needed to be reveled; to be couched in Holy W●itt; exhibited under Sacraments; and entrusted to Dispensers' not only faithful, but able also. Fo● reason irradiated with the Light of supernatural Truth ceaseth not to be rational.  
Again of those that admit Revelation, some argue that whatsoever is Prophecy cannot be acquired: thereupon disclaim Reading, Meditation, and whatsoever other Methods preparatory for the Ministry, were recommended to the Apostolical men. Others, of opposite judgement, contend that whatsoever is acquired cannot be Prophecy. These are scandalised that the Minister should demand audience of the people in the name of God; or pretend to speak with demonstration of the spirit. Neither of them, I think, duly distinguishing between extraordinary Gifts and a standing Office: both furnished by the same spirit suitably to the different exigences of the Church: for the Bread of Canaan was no less the Gift of God, than the Manna in the wilderness.  
Further of those that could allow Schools of the Prophets, all have not equally favoured popular inquiries into the rule of Faith and Manners. Some Persons who have taken up for a Principle that Ignorance is the Mother of Devotion, and Obedience, are wont to magnify the peace and prosperity of those days, wherein knowledge was not yet vulgar and cheap: while the Priest and the Oracle were inseparable; nor examined, but obeyed: since, as admiration, so no less hath Reverence of the Clergy decreased: in the mean time dissembling that those parties which at present divide Christendom, truly date their original not from the breaking out of any clearer light, but from the blindness of former Ages: whilst what opinions & practices were then insensibly admitted, must now be studiously maintained.  
It may indeed so fall out, that people may owe a temporary quiet to the not searching in to their state, through an entire acquiescence in long obtaining customs. A Judgement resigned supersedes the trouble of examination, silences all disputes: is very zealous too, but at the instinct of other men's passion: and needs must it be a frail, and ignoble obedience, which acts not according to knowledge. Scriptures translated, there may be who pervert to unsound opinions; there were who wrested them at their first Revelation in the Vulgar Tongue: at their own peril, though not without others danger. Both of them men 
a 2 Pet. 3.16.  unlearned, and thereupon unstable. All that learn, are not presently learned. Some may be proud upon their little taste of knowledge: become intractable to superiors, prepared to embrace New Doctrines. Be there stiff necks that struggle with the Yoke of Discipline? this cometh not from having been kept in awe, subject to statutes, and orders. Be there unstable minds, not yielding themselves up to be grounded upon firm principles: They learned not that in their Catechism. They who have a more favourable opinion of their own proficiency, may do well to suffer a strict Judgement to pass upon their notions lest they be found to know nothing as they ought. For indeed it is not the being endowed with more or less knowledge, (if perhaps, little knowledge be an endowment) but the Grace of Charity with either, that accordingly makes men sober and useful: without which they become conceited and factious, whilst 
a Synod. Exon. An. 1277. c. 20. Omnium mater errorum ignorantia.  Ignorance is of itself the certain Mother of Error. To decry the publishing of truth, upon pretence of securing peace, argueth a consciousness of some opinions, which must be indulged because useful, would be concealed because unwarrantable. A dark shop giveth suspicion of corrupted wares, that would escape the Magistrate and impose upon the buyer. Again, admit the most knowing Teacher, yet subject to human frailties, if his hearers come unprovided of a Judgement of discretion, they cannot have assurance in practice, whether they be the Disciples of Divine verities, or servants of human passions. And the more laborious the one is in Teaching, the more diligent and affectionate the other in hearing: nay, in repeating what they have heard, they will run the greater risk. So that to take away the rule of discerning Doctrines from the People, and confine them to the sense of particular Pastors, hath as small probability of advancing Catholic Religion, as it hath appearance of promoting commutative Justice to call in standards, and warrant every cellar's Weights and Measures, upon his private seal.  
In short, that the Canon of Faith be communicated to all Believers is honest to the People. 
a Deut. 33.4.  The Law of Moses was the inheritance of the Circumcised: the whole Bible is the Birthright of all the Baptised. Now, because some unhappy instances may have been found of particulars, who have embezzled their patrimony to their own damage, and the injury of others, with what colour of Justice can it be urged that the community of their country be disinherited?  
It is also honourable to their faithful Pastors. Would not a good Musician desire his whole Auditory well instructed in the Art of Music, that they may the better judge of his Airs? And an accurate Limner be pleased if all spectators of his Pieces were competently skilled in proportions, colours, shadows, and what else is requisite that they might rightly discern the Beauties of his Pictures, and set a due price on them?  
Lastly it is safe to the Magistrate. A people delivered up to implicit faith in their leaders is in the next disposition to be seduced, they are only by accident Loyal: and their Virtue owing to Fortune, because at another man's choice. Right and well grounded submission to Civil and Ecclesiastical Government is the Genuine issue of knowledge to sobriety. For the manifold benefits of order, and in conscience of the divine institution and command, Obedience is not to be withdrawn from morose and hard Masters; but therefore to advise to keep a people low in understanding, and Fortunes are the misadventurous Politics of such as serve themselves of Governors, and set up a private against the public interest: whereas, when truth and civil beatitude are intended, the more any Nation increases in wisdom, the more intrinsical enforcements of Loyalty will they derive from the eternal Reasons of that Law which injoins their obedience; and the Bands of such Government become indissoluble.   

§. 5.  
There is therefore a learning which cannot be too universally dilated: a fast friend both to Policy and Religion: nor is it an enemy to trade, but by strict injunctions 
a 2 Thes. 3.10.12.  commands Labour. Mechanical and manual Operations are several times styled 
a Titus 3.8, 14.  good Works. Handicrafts exercised by the Ancient Rabbins, did not upon their conversion unqualify for the 
b Dist. 91. Clericus. Conc. Carthag. 4. cap. 51.2, 3. De Clericis ut artificio victum quaerant. R. Moses been. maimon. tract. de study legis cap. 3. Sect. 8, 9, 10. Quisquis legi operam dare vult, laborem autem recusat. etc.  Apostolical dignity. Nay the Author of our Profession, and common Master of all did not disown a Parentage conversant about an honest Art. Nor do Kings his Followers account it any diminution of their Majesty to be enroled in Company with Artisans. Again, as the right bred Scholar sees reason not to magnify himself against the industry of other honest laborers and Artists, since God hath charged his support in good measure on part of their labours; so we find the more ingenuous both of City and Country to bear a true respect to Learning. This they have testified among other proofs by many monuments of their piety in all parts of the Land erected to the breeding up Youth in good manners and Literature. These worthy Persons had been so far proficients under the ordinary means of instruction in the Church, as to acknowledge the good success of their labours to have been from the gift and blessing of God: had tasted the fruits of Wisdom, and highly prized it. Whereupon in humble retribution to the divine goodness, and out of compassion to the plaee of their Nativity or Preferment, founded there some Free-School, especially for the poor, that they might also be provided with means of knowledge. Others have added exhibitions that if Children at the School should give hopes of profiting they might receive farther encouragement to proceed till they arrived at fitness for employment suitable to their Education. A zeal unanimously allowed to have proceeded from a pious intention: only for the matter, by some disputed. These favour Learning yet are not reconciled to Free-Schools. Nay, great contention hath been needful to convince Towns, after many years, to admit such foundations, though fairly endowed, as any ways beneficial to the Neighbourhood; with so much the more reason may the Gentry require that such as would have the liberal Arts and Sciences should pay for them: without censure keep their blood unmixed with mean conversation, by immuring them at home, or sequestering them into some convenient recess, to be trained up in society with their equals, remote from Markets and Towns, nor countenance such places with the Education of their Children. Upon these allegations duly considered it may not be improper to examine what is the import of free-Schools to a state, especially Christian; since upon the issue of this Question, not only the discretion of Founders cometh to be decided, but the hope of obtaining future Benefactors doth in great measure depend.   

§. 6.  
To the acquiring this Learning above argued universally necessary, Domestical Institution cannot be universally sufficient. The Rich are not always at leisure to attend private occasions. Court and Camp avocations from House and Nursery: Voiages and Journeys, in this ambulatory condition of life often unsettle them; at last, Bands of Families come to be dissolved. The poor, they can less teach their Children what themselves are too commonly, ignorant off, Now the want of good principles, at first laid, proves an impeachment to profiting under the public Instruction of the Ministry, that is, to growth in all Christian virtue. Besides, if particulars, however able (for the charge must be great) might entertain Tutors, who did not employ Chaplains, this would render the Scholar numerous and unprovided for. Schools therefore and Masters are necessary. These would be in every Parish, nay Township: for petty Scholars. Further it cometh to be enquired whether others for Grammar are not requisite to be had at distances not grievous. There is occasion for some that are learned in all places. Where there are no men of Language and reading, particular Governments can scarcely be well administered: nor many offices executed. The professions of them, as their entertainments, some higher, others of inferior rank. Again the temper and inclination of Children whether of rich or poor in their first rudiments will discover themselves who give hopes of being to good use advanced to further studies. Seeds of modesty and diligence, from a pregnant wit would by no means be suppressed in what ever condition they were found. Yet through their own unfavorable circumstances, as soon as they have exerted their vigour, must languish unless they find some other expedient. Their only relief therefore remains in the favour of Princes and Patriots, this is, public endowments. These whether advisable, and how far, is the adequate matter of this present disquisition. That there should be Champions of Justice and Truth with great diligence trained up may seem a public concern, since the enemies of Church and State are not seldom polite in language, subtle in distinctions, and pugnacious in dispute: nor to be otherwise repelled then by sound arguments, clear judgement, and copious utterance. A prize hardly attainable without legitimate study, in places regulated by established orders for Direction; and no less, for restraint. That Philosophy be free, but not licentious: bounds set to speculation: and the wantonness of calling in question, then exposing, principles of Religion & Government, (which hinders action, disaffects society, and embroiles the world) by Authority curbed.   

§. 7.  
But why do I dwell any longer on private reasonings? In controversies of this moment, it is safer to consult the approved practice of Ages & Nations. Monarches as well as Free-States have of old agreed in this, 
a Ex viribus Reip. Eumenius. Constantius (Constantini M. fill.) C. de praebendis salariis l. 1. è fisco. Sueton in Vespasiano 18. publicè. Plin. Secundus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Suid. in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉,  at the public charge to reclaim their subjects from natural wildness. Hence to wave times and places commonly called Barbarous, 
b Besides Athens, at Alexandria, Tarsus upon Cydnus, Antioch, Rhodes. Strabo. Suidas.  the Greek and 
c Rome, Spain, Gall-land▪ in Province, Autun, Bourdeaux. Sueton, Eumenius, Ausonius.  Latin Empire (successively the Pale of the Civil World) did in Cities and Towns of most note hire at honourable salaries, Professors of Philosophy and Rhetoric. These, mainly to direct in pleading; that the Civil Law might run. A learning of great importance to the security of Empire, because not only Doctrinal, but Coercive. Philosophers to inform the mind in things human and divine. These not only staked out the bounds of honesty, but left marks to discern truth of conclusion from appearance: and withal by dextrous application of number and proportion, made the way of commutative Justice plain. These produced the Calendar, the Globe, the Mariner's Chart and Compass, by their Labours now rendered easy. In a word, much of that, which now is polite in Arts, or facilitates Labour, is owing to the methodical invention of the Contemplative; be it spoken without derogation from the honour due to the casual Experiments of the Practic.  
As to Grammar, neither hath that been unprovided for, or ungrateful to the Public. For to omit the elder Grammarians, who after speech resolved into its distinct parts, proceeded to expound the Poets; when Empire had once embraced Nations of divers Languages, it became necessary to the preservation of Peace to plant a right, which must, at least, be a common understanding between them. The structure of words, composition of sentences, with all the reason of interpretation, was now formed into an Art: and rendered the comprehension of divers Tongues not difficult. Only turn the key (Grammar was the P●sse pertout) the gate of several Idioms was unlocked: and learners from the narrowness of their homebred simplicity, at once let into all the benefits of Rhetoric and Philosophy abovementioned, with whatever other advantage the Learned Languages can communicate. Which good to promote, schools were erected in the Imperial City, and about the Provinces. Masters invited at liberal Pensions issuing out of the Exchequer, or from the stocks of Corporations: nor were endowments of Country Schools then unknown. And Academies had their Revenues. That which was first called 
a Suid. in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉.  Academy was a school-house within a grove in the suburbs of Athens: by an Hero of that name dedicated to the propagation of wisdom. 
b Idem in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉.  Plato living there had only a garden valuable at some three pound of yearly rent: a small pittance in comparison of what his 
c Speusippus, Xenocrates, Polemo, Crantor, Crates.  successors enjoied. For at last the revenue came to be a thousand pound a year or upwards. This augmentation arose from devout men and well disposed to Learning, as, at times, such dying in their wills left several donations to those that would espouse a contemplative life, that so they might with more freedom attend the rules and study of Philosophy.  
As for Country Schools, take one instance. 
d Plin. Secundus, B. 4. Epist. 13.  Pliny the younger, upon occasion, finding that his Townsmen of New Como sent their sons to Milan to school for want of Masters there, advised the Burghers how much it was their interest, who were Fathers, to have Teaching upon the place. For where can children with more delight reside then in their Country? be more watchfully guarded then under parent's sight? or cheaper kept then at home? that it would be no such great expense to contribute towards the entertainment of Schoolmasters: considering what is now expended upon board, upon journeys, upon purchase of all necessaries abroad at the dearest hand, would pass upon account in a Master's salary: bids them agree what to subscribe: he that had no child yet, for his Countries sake, would bear a third of it. The whole he would have undertaken had he not feared least in process of time his cheap beneficence might be, through sinister ends, misapplyed, as he observed to have fallen out in many places where the community were Patron. Bids them confer together, conclude upon a bold sum; he should be the better pleased the higher his proportion were raised. They could do no act more to the credit of their children, or their Countries profit: that those be bred there, who were born there: that from their infancy they contract an habitual love to their native soil, and be there much resident. In fine, he wished they could invite such eminent Masters as the neighbouring Towns might be content to study with them: and as now other places drew their children to themselves, so by that fair reprisal they might win over others children thither. 
a Plin. Secund. B 1. Ep. 8.  He furnished his Townsmen a Library: 
b In the same place, B. 7. Ep. 18.  settled a stock for the breeding up the children of honest decayed and overburdened Housekeepers: not to mention 
c B 6. Ep. 32.  the portion given to the daughter of Quintilian his old 
d B. 2. Ep. 14.  Rhetoric master, or other benefactions of that good natured Moralist. 
e Sueton. de Illustrib. Grammat. in Verrio Flacco.  In the Palace of Augustus was a College where the young Caesars, in the head of the most promising flower of the Nobility with silence attended the dictates of their Tutor. In other places should I enumerate the Illustrious Grammarians among the ancients Greek and Latin, their successions with the noted Towns where there Chair stood, it would require a just Volume: suffice it to our purpose, that we shall not find any free-Citizens, what ever their rank were, desirous to profit in Learning, debarred ftom their Lectures: such care to provide means for training up the youth of all sorts in liberal Arts and Sciences had those Empires while Heathen.   

§. 8.  
Christianity, sure, having greater inducements to the attaining of Wisdom, affords men of every condition not less encouragements to follow the study of true Knowledge. In the Church is a standing occasion for Teachers, to whom Learning is necessary: other advantages of Fortune may at sometimes be greatly serviceable, but were never indispensably required. The first effusion of gifts fell upon the willing and faithful, at least in disposition, however in opinion erroneous: nor did lowness of estate put a bar. Upon this, the 
a S. Paul, Timothy. S. Peter, Mark.  Apostles trained up such novices as ministered to them while they were called from place to place and referred their Viaticum to be taken at the Churches through which they passed; which those Churches esteemed themselves under an obligation to confer upon them; such was the fervour of primitive Charity. Nor is it a wonder if the Apostolical conversation were a constant exercise to all Christian knowledge and virtues 
b The Roman Court hath University Privileges since the sitting of Innocent. 4. Gloss, upon Clementines B. 4. Tit. 1. Ch. 1. In studiis Rom. Curiae.  when the verge of the Roman Court carrieth about with it, whithersoever it removeth, the privileges of an University. We may not here presently expect public and endowed schools; since neither do we now know what Churches were yet erected, or what settled maintenance was for the Ministry. Some adult proficients in the Jewish and Heathen Schools were by the power of Truth brought over to be instructed and then Teachers in the Christian Church. Indeed a Catechistical school was kept at Alexandri● about the latter end of the second Century successively by 
a Pantaenus, a Stoic Philosopher, taught the Alexandrine school under Commodus. Niceph. Callist. B. 4. c. 32. Clement succeeded him. ch. 33. Origen at 18 years old: under Severus by the Bishop Demetrius made Catechist. B. 5. c. 4, 5. Heraclas admitted in the 12. of Alexander, after Bishop. Then Dionysius, after Bishop. Sixthly Athenodorus. c. 18.  Pantaenus, Clemens, Origen, Heraclâs, Dionysius, and Athenodorus. Here it were worth the considering, whether under the modest name of Catechistical and School, were not couched over and above the delivering a complete Circle of Arts and Sciences, whatsoever is with us preparatory to the highest degrees in Divinity.  

b S. Gregorii oratio ad Origenem Panegyrica & valedic●oria.  Gregory surnamed Thaumaturgus, that is Worker of Wonders, upon departure from his Catechist to be Bishop of Neocaesarea in Pontus, made a valedictory oration; which he recited before Origen in the presence of many Auditors: in this panegyrics of thanks, having premised by what maze of Providence he had been led to Caesarea in Palestine, whither that excellent Professor was then also removed; he recounts with much affection the several Arts and Faculties in which he had been instructed for five years by that eminent Person: whereas he had before only laid the foundation of Rhetoric in order to the study of the Law. First he won him over to Philosophy: pressed him with gentle compulsions; How disingenuous, how short of religious must that man needs be, nay scarce worthy the name of man who neglects Philosophy, that is, the study of Wisdom, the privilege peculiar to his nature above all others in the world by the divine favour indulged? here he instilled into him the principles of Christian Doctrine. And, because we are apt to give an overhasty assent to whatever is confidently asserted; and again without sufficient reason contradict what is decried by the multitude; he would direct his scholar in general to suspend his sentence, till he should rightly inform his judgement: and withal traced him out the methods, whereby to demonstrate Truth and discover Fallacies. A skill most necessary for men in all conditions of life, if it be their interest not to be imposed upon in any of their communication with others. Farther, whereas our spirits left to themselves are ordinarily low, scattered, or narrow, he would erect, dispose and enlarge his hearers thought by displaying at other times before him the mighty and wonderful and various and alwise work of the Creation: the beautiful order of nature: abstracting the mass of first matter collected from the continual motion of particular sublunary Bodies, of different properties, compounded of Elements, diversified by forms, resolvible into atoms alike fine and imperceptible by our grosser capacities in their source, course and resort: all which attest providence and a first cause; although his work cannot by us be perfectly comprehended. Then would he let his pupil into the knowledge of the Mathematics, made him ascend that ladder whose basis are the unshaken maxims of Geometry; whose steps, conclusions rightly deduced; whose top, Astronomical speculations. But, what is of most intimate and chief importance to the comfort of human life, he laboured in delivering sound and divine morals about Passions, Virtues and Vices: what was inordinate, rectified: what immoderate, retrenched. By seasonable discourse; To mind the concerns of our soul, he would give out for the true Justice. A man to know himself, and see God with a pure spirit: for the only prudence. To guard from incursions of pleasure & passion the evenness of our temper, right temperance. To persevere in holy purposes against all discouragements, the highest fortitude: these precepts he rendered visible by a lively practice. His attentive and well-disposed scholar although he assumed not to himself the present possession or near approach to this divine treasure or even human perfections, through the dulness of his own apprehension, or deadness of his mind, yet withal did avow a love to virtue, a pursuit after it, and affiance to obtain it through the divine benediction. This rare proficient magnifieth above the rest his Masters sacred Metaphysics: and Lectures in Divinity. His talon was singular in expounding difficult Texts, and the mystery of Religion: to speak the things of God as from God: to the instruction of men, man as he was: till both speaker and hearer were rapt up into the same transports of devotion. He would allow his scholars to range through the Philosophers and Poets, not to espouse any sect, but hear all and excerpe out of their works what might conduce to good manners, or give testimony to the Deity. Only cautioned against the Atheist and voluptuary, who deny God or Providence: counting him beneath the reasonable nature, who disowned the cause of all Being. When Gregory had taken solemn leave with this public acknowledgement, and many other pathetical expressions, he was dismissed by Origen with a prayer suitable to the occasion: and proved an instrument in the Church to such admiration, that having found at his return in the City where was the See of his residence but 17 Christians, at his decease he blessed God that he left not more Pagans in the City and Country of his Diocese. This instance of Catechistical Education in a place yet almost warm with the footsteps of the Apostles and Apostolical men hath been the more particularly specified to leave some intimations that the primitive discipline was not lax: only consisting in an affected simplicity: that Academical studies have been of old applied to the better enabling for the work of the Ministry: and principally that the Assistances of Divine Grace are not contradistinguished to human preparations, which, as time and opportunities are offered, it rather prerequireth. In the same City and Century Pamphilus set up a like School and Library: wherein he was succeeded by Eusebius: such care of breeding up youth in Religion and Learning was there amidst the hottest persecutions.   

§. 9  
A second age of the Church followeth from Constantine the Great. In general, lettered persons of whatever profession, received then from the state great immunities and 
a C: de Professorib. & medicis l. 6. Medicos & maxim Archiatros.  Privileges. At Rome, and to be sure at Constantinople, was a kind of University called 
b C. de studiis liberalib. Urbis Romae & C. Politanae.  the Auditory of the Capitol: here under Theodosius the great were entertained three Latin Orators, ten Grammarians, five Sophisters, one Philosopher, two Lawyers. But this seminary seems to have been principally for secular occasions.  
The Empire now become Christian, Churches and Monasteries were erected in all Provinces. large endowments and privileges conferred on the Clergy in particular. What time, besides the teaching in Monasteries, there were in Mother-Cities especially, in the Western Church a Close and House for the Bishop. At the first entrance of whose Court was an Appartiment where the young students who were trained up for the ministry had their common Dormitory and Hall with other convenient Rooms: under the charge of some grave Guardian: having a Master to instruct them in Arts, and another to oversee their manners: all under the inspection of the Bishop: whom they did assist in the public divine service, according to their degree: maintained at a portion from the Canonical dividend of Diocesan Tithes and Offerings: with a prospect of being placed in the Churches of the same Diocese as they became vacant, nor to remove elsewhere without leave of their Ordinary. These Deacons, 
a Concil. Toletanum quartum Anno 633. In veteri lege ab an. 25. Levitae tabernaculo servire mandantur cujus auctoritatem in Canonibus & S. Patres secuti sunt, a 25 annis aetatis Levitae consecrentur: & a 30 annis Presbyteri ordinentur. S. Laurence is called Levita in Prudentius; and a MS. Calendar in Balliol Col.  Levites, Canons, Clerks, or Nurslings were the Probationers for the Priesthood and the Congregation of Canons is 
b By Binnius.  judged to have laid the platform of Cathedral and Collegiate Schools and the modern Seminaries. 
c Augustin. de communi vita Clericorum. Serm. 22. Ad Presbyt. S. 36.  Hither S. Austin when Bishop of Hippo did not refuse sometimes to come and dine in the common Refectory among the Presbyters and Clerks, to countenance and oversee the students sequestered to the service of God, and entitled to the nurture of the Church in those days by a voluntary, and often by a necessary poverty: yet if any did embrace a married life and which consequently admitted possessions (such as were called secular) he admonishes them to be circumspect, yet would by no means deny them ordination (though they quitted their title to the community.) After all this care Heresies broke out, and contentions between the Eastern and Western Empire, followed with an inroad of Barbarous Nations, whereby Religion was much eclipsed and Learning almost wholly exterminated.   

§. 10.  
Come we therefore to a third period of Christianity from the times of Charles the Great. Italy was now become Gothish; Spain, Moorish; and France spoke generally Dutch. Germany itself but newly converted to the Faith. The Offices of the Church were then in Latin; a Language not well understood by many that did officiate; and by very few that assisted at them. In these circumstances the necessity of Schoolmasters greatly increased. Since the good Grammarian is now become previous, and in some measure conditional to the good Christian: at this time the Emperor applied his latter years to the Learning of Arts and Sciences: called in from foreign parts Learned men in great numbers and among them that eminent Britan Albinus, Alcuinus or Gwyn (his Grammar is yet extant with us) at whose persuasion he erected the famous University of Paris. His son 
a Concilium Paris. An. 829. L. 1. c. 30. a Domino Ludovico jussum & admonitum est, ut Rectores Ecclesiarum, etc. Unde omnibus nobis visum est ut abhinc postposita totius torporis negligentia etc.  Lodowick the Pious (in the nonage of that University) laid his command upon Rectours in their respective Churches to train up stout soldiers of Christ by whom God might be appeased. Hereupon, that order being slackly obeyed, Provincial Counsels finding 
b Concil. Valentinum Anno 855. Quia ex hujus studii longa intermissione, pleraque Ecclesiarum Dei loca & ignorantia fidei, & totius scientiae inopia invasit. Concil. Tullense apud Saponarias, Anno 859. Quia quod nimis dolendum est & perniciosum maxime divinae scripturae verax & fidelis intelligentia jam ita dilabitur ut vix ejus extrema vestigia reperiantur; & idcirco ingenti cura & study remedium procurandum est.  a general decay of Piety through ignorance of the Holy Scriptures required that the several Rectors should exhibit their young Scholars at those Assemblies. Articles were drawn up upon which Arch-Deacons should inquire in their yearly visitation: by 
c 858.  Herard Archbishop of Tours; by 
d 859.  Theodulph Bishop of Orleans; 
e 871.  Walter Bishop of the same; by 
f 874.  Hincmar Archbishop of Rheims. Whether their 
g Walteri Capitula. cap. 6. Ut unusquisque presbyter Clericum & scholam habeat.  Priest had a Clerk; and whether he kept School in the Church. 
a Theodulphi Capitulare 20. cum summa caritate doceant: nihil ab eis pretii pro hac exigant: accipiant quod eyes parents caritatis studio sua voluntate obtulerint.  These Schools were free and seem at first to have been chiefly to teach the 
b Concil. Mogunt. 1. Anno 813. ut fidem Catholicam recte discant, & orationem Dominicam ut domi alios edocere valeant. Et qui aliter non potuerit, vel in sua lingua hoc discat.  Lords Prayer & Creed, or perhaps the Psalter, at least some select Psalms; and what may amount to our Primer, only in Latin; though the meaner sort were permitted to say the Lords Prayer and Creed in their vulgar Tongue. Schools of Christianity which carried on others of a higher form to 
c Capitulare Aquisgranense, an. 784. Psalmos, notas cantus, computum, Grammaticam per singula Monasteria vel Episcopia discant. Sed & libros Catholicos bene emendatos habeant.  pricksong, and the use of the pie with Grammar. The care of farther propagating divine and human learning was a common Head in the Councils of those Ages: still recommended to the Bishops, 
d Dis. 37. de quibusdam: quia in his maxim divina manifestantur atque declarantur mandata.  acknowledged the principal means whereby the commandments of God are declared and made manifest to the people. Hence that Act of the third Lateran (
e Decret. lib. 5. tit 5. de magi: & ne aliquid exigatur pro licentia docendi. Quoniam Ecclesia Dei, sicut pia mater, providere tenetur, ne pauperibus, etc.  inserted into the body of the Canon Law and mentioned in our Chronicle 
The Clerk was then to the Priest Companion in conversation, Assistant in Divine Service, Master of his School, and designed Successor in the Living.  of Gervase in the reign of Henry the second.) Whereas the Church of God as a tender mother is bound to find such as stand in need, both in what belongs to their bodily sustenance and in what may conduce to the improvement of their souls, lest convenience of reading and advancement in learning should be withheld from the poor who cannot be assisted in it by means from their Parents, be there a competent maintenance in every Cathedral Church allowed a Master to teach freely the Clerks of the same Church and the poor Scholars: that so the Teacher's wants may be relieved and a door set open for the studious to attain Learning. This sort of Schools might be better borne with because Colleges have often some provisions for the Collegers and means of preferment. But the complaint is, that besides these, there are of late Grammar Schools founded and endowed in almost every Market Town of England where the Children of the Town are only to be taughr gratis without any other allowance. Consider we therefore though these Erections have been of late whether the practice be so modern. In the year 1215 it is expressly further enacted in the fourth Lateran 
a Decr. l. 5. tit. 5. de magi. c. Quia nonullis etc.  that not only in every Cathedral but also in other Churches whose means be not able to bear a Divinity Lecture, there be at least appointed an able Master to be chosen by the Prelate with the Chapters consent to teach the Clerks of those Churches freely Grammar, and others according to his ability: and that a prebend's place be assigned every Master by the Chapter. This was ordained in the times of King John, in whose Reign Newbury School is said to have been founded and endowed with many other in sequel which were suppressed or continued by King Henry the Eighth, or King Edward the Sixth.   

§. 11.  
Thus are we arrived at the fourth and present Age of the Church, being that of the Reformation, and about the times of the Council of Trent. This Council wanted not some men of Politics profound enough. These awakened with the revolution of National Churches; well advised that conduct of Conscience, that is (if I may so speak) of the Reasonable subject, is most safely committed to such as can render a reason; and that to the gaining Consequences it is ordinate to deliver Principles; made eminent provision for Seminaries 
a Counc. of Trent. Sess. 23. Ch. 18. Pauperum filios praecipue eligi vult, nec tamen ditiorum excludi.  whereinto poor men's sons especially should be elected, not excluding the richer. This order was accordingly put into execution in the Provincial Counsels of divers Countries: most effectually in that of Milan: where all their Offices with their particular charges are amply delivered by that eminent of Cardinals, the since canonised Borromaeo. Others in Flanders at the solicitation of Cardinal Allen: nor hath this constitution devised for the maintaining that power, then shaken, been wholly unanswerable in the success to its first intention.   

§. 12.  
About what time upon the several dissolutions of Religious Houses in England, some Schools were reserved, some erected: with general licence for well-disposed Persons to found others and endow them within a Mortmain by the State determined. According to which gracious liberty such as have contributed to so pious a work seem to have deserved well of their Town, For however we may be prone to judge of the forward accommodations of life, all is not in present food and raiment. There is improvement of mind, the fruits of discipline, not to be despised. A learned slave would sell for more. A youth brought up at school will be taken Apprentice with less money than one illiterate. The broken Colt, tamed Heifer, polished Diamond; known instances: nay, ground reclaimed by culture will set at the higher rent. Grammar-learning is requisite to very many honest callings: and with industry, faith, and other virtue's qualifying for trust, hath opened a way for high preferment: nor is it a privilege to be meanly prized by any people, to have such education provided, that out of their children, in due season, may be chosen such as may bear the Office of the Ministry.  
Hence too accrues advantage to the state. That instruments be fitted for employment imports; but more, that Officers of trust be prevented with sound principles. Miserable is the face of any Nation where neither Schools nor Universities be frequented: no Law, no safe commerce: a general ignorance, and neglect of duty both to God and man. Now that Universities flourish, and Schools are in many populous Towns erected, from those places of public education especially, persons are sent into all parts of the Land, engaged in the strictest bonds of Allegiance.   

§ 13.  
Lastly, as to the Church, these Foundations have to that a more immediate respect. The statutes of these Houses generally enjoin a diligent and decent attendance on the public worship. Nay, learning well the first rudiments of Religion, and bearing a yoke of Government, prepares a people to be more docile under their proper Ministers, stayed in judgement, and compliant with the Discipline, as well as Doctrine, of their Spiritual Pastors. Further, what is a manifest advantage, the salaries to Masters and exhibitions to Scholars provide in great measure that the Church be not burdened: since, upon supposition of their being withheld, Ecclesiastical Benefices are taxable to the breeding up of students, as, in fact, at the 
a Injunctions by Queen Elizabeth, 1559. the twelfth Art.  beginning of Queen Elizabeth's reign they were taxed a thirtieth part. 
b Conc. Trident. Sess. 23. cap. 18.  When the Fathers at the Council of Trent assembled, had propounded a fair Model of Seminaries knowing the advantages that arise to Religion from Learning, and the necessity of endowments to the attaining those advantages, till such endowments could be had, for the immediate bringing that design to effect they levied a Tax on all the rends assigned for the Bishops, and the Chapters Table, on the profits of all Dignities, Personages, Offices, prebend's, Portions, Abbeys, Priories, Benefices as well of Regulars, as Peculiars, on the Fabric of Churches, and other Religious Houses; on Colleges, Corporations, Guilds and Fraternities, Monasteries, and Exhibitions. Of such importance was this work by them then esteemed: as indeed it hath since proved a great accession to the relatives of that exempt and peculiar jurisdiction; and firmest support of the Papal throne.   

§. 14.  
Now the better to form in us a right sense of what regards we ought to bear to these worthy Patriots, whom God raised up to be Founders and Benefactors, it may be not improper to examine in what posture the state Scholastic was found at the entrance of King Edw. 6, upon the Government. It is well known that a great part of the former Teaching was in Monasteries. 
a Coke upon Littleton. Lib. 2. Cap. 6. Sect. 137.  Now there were in England 118 Monasteries of Royal Foundation whereof 27 mitred Abbots: and 2 Priors held their Estates in Baron's Fee, and gave vote in Parliament. All these were dissolved with the others which were many more during the Reign of K. Hen. 8. First 
b 1524.  40 of the lesser by Cardinal Woolsey: with the leave of Clement 7. 
c 1536.  then such as were under two hundred pound per annum to the number of 376: 
d 1538. 9.40.  afterwards the greater: 
e 1541.  the year following, the great Priory of S. John's of Jerusalem. 
f 1546.  At last, all Hospitals, Chantries, Schools, Colleges were without any condition given into the King's hands: to be disposed of according to his better intentions. Then was the survey of Eton and Winchester Colleges returned up: but the death of the King that year interposed between the Act and its utmost Execution. 
a 1415.  Henry the fifth when he suppressed the Prior's Aliens, had thoughts of going farther, but was diverted upon a French War by the prudent address of that most vigilant and Reverend Prelate Chichly. Strange may it be thought here why the Lords Spiritual and Temporal should agree with the Commons to put up these Bills to King Henr. 8. in so unlimited a manner: 
b 37. Hen. 8. For as much as it is right well known that the said Governors or the greatest number of them hitherto have not, nor yet do use etc. And for that the King's Highness of his godly and blessed disposition etc.  unless it did argue, as to the incumbents of those Monasteries and Chantries, a public dissatisfaction about their having answered the pious intention of their Founders: and as to the King, an affiance in his Royal purpose to settle those means in a more decent and convenient order for the service of God, and safety of the Realm. And indeed having dispossessed the Monks that had intruded he reestablished 
c Bishop Godwyn. Rerum Anglicarum Annal. l. 1. Henry 8. 1539.  Canterbury, Winchester, Ely, Norwich, Worcester, Rochester, Duresme, Carlisle upon Dean and Prebendaries: erected upon a new Foundation Westminster, 
d 1540 translated 1546  (Osney first, then) Oxford, Gloucester, Chester, Peterborough, Bristol, into Bishoprics, 
a Records in the Augmentation Office.  and had before him the project of other Collegiate Churches to be erected in the place of eminent Monasteries, upon a fair proportion for maintenance of Divine service, Hospitality, Learning, Alms and other necessary expenses. Much of this drawn up, first in an ample scheam, then contracted, at last, his death intervening, was laid aside. Thus stood the affair: Monasteries dissolved: Appropriations, that is, once Church-Revenue sold. Indeed the erecting of Free-Schools recommended to Purchasers; which showed the good inclinations of the King to the work, however not fully accomplished in his life time.   

§. 15.  
After his decease, the Parliament 
b 1 Edward VI.  passed an Act for taking away the remnant of those Houses not yet actually dissolved; but with a distinction between Religious and Superstitious uses, and with reservation of some places by name. (Whether experience had rectified their former opinions, or that they did repose less confidence in Governors during the minority, then in their natural King.) Schools were among other pious uses reserved in that remnant, 
c Office of the Augmentation of the King's Revenue. Warrants, Surveys, Erections of Schools.  Hereupon Commissions are issued out by a set day returnable. The Surveyors of each County, after Examination upon the place, return Certificats signed: among the rest, where a Grammar-School had been continually kept, with the Revenue of what Chantry, who the Incumbent, what stipend, and whether fit to be continued. Then were Warrants made from the two Commissioners to that purpose authorised, and sent to the Auditor and Receiver of his Majesty's Revenue in the respective Counties, to continue the School, and pay the Master out of the Crown-Revenue, till farther order. The salaries were but small, as in a dry rent charged on old Tenors: and those Priests were otherwise assistant at the divine Service. A Table extracted from several Warrants all dated July 20. 1548. and in Parchment engrossed, might be here inserted for 25 Counties: but the provision of itself amounted to some stay, yet no great relief. One or two instances may be not ungrateful whether to the curious, or judicious Reader; showing the County, the Town, the former Title, the Incumbent, and Revenue continued.  


Herefordshire, 

Ledbury, Trinity service, Richard Wheeler. 3 l. 11 s. 3 d.  
Bosbury, Parish Reven. Tho. Keyling. 2.9.9. ob.  
Richard's Castle, Seru. of our Lady, and St. John Baptist. Jo. Parkyns. 4.16.7.  
Pembredge, Seru. of our Lady. Jo. Rood. 3.13.0.  
K●ngisland. two stipendaries at the Altar of our Lady. Jo. Hartley. 8.4.3.  
Delwyn. Chant. of S. Nicolas. Tho. nicols. 3.11.6. ob. q.  
K●nnersly, Lands finding a Priest. Will Pike. 6.2.0.  
Bromyard, Lands to find a Priest. Jo. Battenall. 3.9.11.  
Yardsley, Lands and Tenements to find a Priest. Will Stone. 4.13.10.  
Bucknell, Lands and Tenements to find a Priest. Laur. Johnson. 5.6.8.    
Oxfordshire. Cheping Norton. Trinity guilded. Hamlet Malban. 6.0.0.  
Herefordshire. Ayshewell. the guilded. Thomas day. 6.13.4.   Besides these and divers others throughout the Land, continued, as may seem, for the laying the first grounds of Religion and Orthography, the same most Religious Prince, in lieu of many Country-Schools formerly suppressed, erected a new several others in many Towns; in Sherbourne principally Dorsetshire, and after that form Macclesfield, Cheshire. Chelmsford, Essex. Leominster, Herefordshire. Grantham, Louth, Lincolnshire. Morpeth, Northumberland. Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Bath, Bruton, Somersetshire. Stafford, Staffordshire. S. Edmondsbury, Suffolk. Brymycham, Nun-Eaton, Warwickshire. Marlborough, Wiltshire. Stourbridge, Worcestershire. Sedburgh, Yorkshire. All of them upon considerable Revenue established: however partial any modern Historian hath appeared to the fame of that most worthily renowned Prince.  
Under the Government of Queen Mary some Foundations were yet added: she was a Lady not less accuratly bred then highly born. The unhappiness of her Reign consisted in troubles from ill subjects; and, more in giving way to private resentments, heightened by the Artifice of those men, who knew no way so effectual to ingratiate themselves with a power they had abjured, as to be officious in impeaching their Brethren more innocent than themselves: wherein she harkened to her own Princely motion, gave tokens of innate Clemency: zeal for the Religion she professed, and a propension to favour whatever belonged to learning. Banbury, Oxfordshire. Boston, Lincolnshire, may testify that: nor would it be passed over in silence, that the salaries of the Beadles in the Universities are ftom her Royal donation.   

§. 16.  
But a far greater accession came during the long and flourishing Reign of Queen Elizabeth. This gracious Princess received the Crown from her Sister much in debt, was embroyld in divers and chargeable Wars; yet found such Blessing upon her Counsels and conduct, bore such piety and love to learning, that she did in great measure effect what her Father had designed, and her Brother so happily advanced. Her first liberality was, 
a 1 Eliz.  to discharge Hospitals and Schools of first fruits and Tenths: after that, the 
b 18 Eliz.  Statute of provision, by which all Colleges at this day subsist. Lastly, the 
c 41 Eliz.  Act ordaining the Commission for Charitable Uses. A Seal of public Trust added to all Charities: not long before her death. A law by which the Throne is for ever warranted against Sacrilege, having appointed ordinary means to redress abuses, the pious intention still preserved. But in particular her own Royal Foundation the most famous School of Westminster: supplying a noble part of each University beareth witness to her zeal comprehensive of both: after which munificence, I need not instance in lesser donations. This inclination of her Majesty once known, excited like affection in her subjects of all ranks and estates upon the first fervors of the Reformation: nor did Bishops only, and men of dignity and place in the Church, but the secular Nobility also and Gentry, the Judges, Mayors, and Aldermen, with the more wealthy Citizens, with much devotion raise up monuments of their love to the places of their birth or settlement, in making provision for their Instruction. And this Virgin Queen may be observed in her Charters to such Corporations, to have taken a particular delight in adopting those Foundations into her own Name, 
a The Clergy at Paris recommend to Hlodowig and Hlothar setting up three public Schools at convenient parts of the Empire. Quoniam ex hoc facto & magna utilitas & Honour Sanctae Dei Ecclesiae & vobis magnum mercedis Emolumentum & memoria sempiterna accrescet. Council, Paris. Anno. 829.  being not ashamed, like a tender Mother, to take into her especial care the breeding up the Children of her Country. Should I here recount by name the several Schools by her endowed, augmented, or at least erected, I should anticipate the greatest part of what History could follow. In a word, the Tax, which at the beginning of her Reign had been laid upon Ecclesiastical benefices for the maintenance of Students at the University, was no longer continued: so far had the Church repaired her almost fatal Dissolution   

§. 17.  
Not long after the Queen's decease, some men of no mean reputation for Wisdom and place, upon whatever occasion or ground of conjecture, represented these foundations as too numerous. The great Advancer of learning, pursuant to that presumption, labours with King James to disannul Suttons Will, as to that point of the intended Teaching of Children. Upon such like suggestions was the accomplished Sir Robert Dallington (as is said) really diverted from settling twenty pound per annum on his fair School-house at Geddington in Northamptonshire, where he was born. Now if such opinion took place so long time since, which notwithstanding, Schools not a few have been erected in the Reigns of King James, King Charles' the first of blessed memory, and are daily under our present Sovereign: with much more force ought it now to prevail. There are yet living, who (as I am credibly informed) would have bestowed Fellowships in the Universities, were they not dissuaded from that sort of Charity by men on whose parts and integrity they repose entire confidence, as having in other causes had experience of them. Divers persons of Catholic principles, who pay Reverence to Antiquity, submission to Counsels and Canons, who no less approve the Prudence than the zeal of Founders, as seeing great use and necessity of Free-Schools, yet believe in process of time they may grow too many; and from some occurring appearances, perhaps, they have been apt to conclude that they are so: the resort of the whole Question is therefore, whether the English Free Grammar-Schools be overproportioned to the occasions of the Church and State of England. The cause imports, especially the esteem of later Founders, and direction of present Charity: but withal, it is exceeding perplexed to state what professions have need of learning: and define within what proportions of men any profession should be stinted. Then for Schools, to compute their Number; distinguish of their nature, discover their true Revenue, carrieth with it no small difficulty; yet more than all this must go to the right determining the case proposed.   

§. 18.  
The first necessity of raising Learned men, is for the Church. About 10000 Parishes in England and Wales duly to be supplied with Pastors. Add hereto Dignities, Curacies, and whatsoever else may give Title to H. Orders; not omitting the Plantations: the residue of ecclesiastics hath been judged some 5000 more. A great Harvest requireth many Laborers. Those therefore that attend on the preparatory part, Incumbents on Schools and Colleges in the Universities would be not a few.  
But might not the Collegiate and Cathedral Schools furnish sufficient to this exigence? Those who understand what of these are remaining in England, whereof some are little more than Choral, and what proportion of Scholars are maintained in each of them, with the fall of places yearly, are convinced how vastly short of the necessity that single supply must needs be: since in Collegiate Schools, and their correlative Colleges, not the standing Bodies come here to be considered, but the succession. Besides these therefore, in succour to a Church left almost destitute at that juncture, several Country Schools have been erected, not only in some Market Towns, but elsewhere: with freedom to the poor Inhabitants, and convenience to those who need not make use of that privilege. These provisions, as Rivulets scattered through the Valleys, have rendered the breadth of the whole Land fruitful: which benefit could not have been so conveniently derived from the greater collection of seminaries; not upon Church Exhibitions, because an exhausted Church, in many places scarce able well to sustain its Pastors, could ill defray the training up such Students as should be for supply necessary: nor upon Pensions from home, for, where Cures are great, and maintenance hardly competent, if the Parent must purchase all at the full rate, the consequent Benefice would rarely refund the charge of Boarding abroad, and Schooling; both which circumstances upon Free-schools inconsiderately diminished, have in themselves a manifest tendency to render the Ministry of the Church of England impracticable.   

§. 19  
Nor would less dis-service redound to the state Civil then Ecclesiastic from such diminution. Counsellors at Law, whether civil or common, in a Nation ample and mercantile, and in a Church aptly organised and ordered, cannot be a few: and that Courts of judicature administer right judgement, would be, not in the Law only, but in Arts of reasoning and utterance, not unlearned. The Militia of the Bar is a standing Army by Parliament allowed: the surest Lifeguard of King and People, since other force ordinarily in a well settled Government is only to protect the Ministers of Justice, and execute their Decrees. As to 
a Stat 3. Jac. 7.  multiplying Lawsuits and immoderate charges, orders for the Regulation of those Courts have in no small measure provided against them: though, I know not, whither with some advantage, as to those points, in the Civil Law; where a suspicious allegation is presently stifled by the Oath of Calumny, and the Bills of Expense taxed by the Judge. But the decision of this I submit to the impartial and more experienced: this insertion might have seemed foreign to my Argument, had not the clamour against the Relatives and Retainers upon this noble Faculty been so managed to the Odium of Schools, that it could not be wholly omitted.   

§. 20.  
There is another occasion for Learned men, which nearly concerns the welfare of our State. In 25 populous Cities, and 52 Counties, Practitioners of Physic may be some hundreds (there being Hospitals not fewer) whereof many have in their life given proof of excellent learning, and at their death left estates not inconsiderable.  
These superior Faculties, as they consist of men to whom learning and Industry, is of absolute necessity, raised Fortunes not always requisite; so cannot they be well exercised without the ministry of subordinate Professions. Attorneys, Solicitors, Scrivenors, have their honest use. 
a C. de Professorib. & Medicis, l. 6. Medicos & maxim Archiatros.  The Justice of contracts is best preserved by those that are least distracted from attendance on their private occasions: and must Lawyers and Justices of Peace have no Clerks, (to omit the Clerks of several offices in Courts of Judicature) or must means of their Education be withheld? nay, the Nobility and Gentry require servants of different abilities; and education. The Doctor's credit, and what of more momenr depends upon it, the life of the Patient may miscarry through the ignorance of an Apothecary: and the Chirurgeon by foreign discourses be more accomplished. Booksellers, Printers, have been for learning very famous and Instrumental to it: briefly, knowledge of Grammar is of use in Navigation and in Travel, and in most of the politer Handicrafts, in its degree; for (as the 
a Vitruvius' of Architecture Book 1 Ch. 1.  Roman Surveyor saith) an Architect neither is nor should be as good a Grammarian as Aristarchus, yet not illiterate: nor as good a Musician as Aristoxenus, yet not unmusical: nor as good a Limner as Apelles, yet not unskilful at designing: nor as good a Founder as Myron or Polycletus, yet not ignorant of the way of moulding: nor again, as good a Physician as Hypocrates, yet not unacquainted with the Grounds of Physic: nor in the other Faculties singularly eminent, but not ignorant of them: even in hedging and ditching men of improved sense and forecast, that comprehend Lines and Numbers, and Seasons, will be Master Workmen among the other Laborers: nor is it for the particular or public more advantageous, that any who may honestly hope to arrive at the Grand Juryman, or to assist in the Government of his Corporation, be a mere Ploughman or Grazier.   

§. 21.  
What hath been on this occasion by some alleged, that a surcharge of poor Scholars draws inconveniencies with it to the public must reasonably be allowed. The consequences are doubtless bad enough. All is summed up in this. Too many ecclesiastics must either amortise an over-proportion of the Land, which creates envy, or live indigent, which exposeth to contempt. But here it is worthy to be considered, whether the case may not so fall out, that necessary employment may be wider than competent maintenance. 
a Concilium Rhemense primum An. 813. cap. 27. Ut in civitatibus & Monasteriis non major numerus servientium Deo mittatur quam possibilitas eis ministrandi fuerit.  Counsels do provide, that in Monasteries and religious Houses greater numbers be not maintained then the means of the place will support: nor Clerks multiplied beyond the occasion of their Churches. But here the same Cure of souls remains, as when the Church-Revenue was greater. This condition deserves pity, not scorn; rather that the poor Vicarages be augmented, than the Vicars diminished. In this low estate that many Congregations are not left destitute of the means of public worship, and all the benefits that accompany it, is, in great measure, owing to the opportunities of learning, so largely provided by charitable benefactions: so that they who would depopulate the Clerks, are fellow-labourers with such as would exterminate the Priests and Bishop. In Israel a twelfth part served at the Altar, and was instated in a tenth part of the increase of the Land. An unlimited proportion of attendants on the work of the Temple might divert from the function of the Magistracy, the exercise of Arts and Labour, and the guard of the Country.   

§. 22.  
But that England should be overstocked with Scholars for the occasions of the Land, is not sufficiently concluded from the late civil Commotions: if we will be still looking abroad for the causes of divine displeasure, it is precarious to fix it upon this Education. Grand Authors of the Troubles were Politicians of a higher form; and noted Officers that executed their designs were many men illiterate, pure Instruments, beneath such ingenuous breeding. Besides, if some bred up under this discipline have failed of their duty, through a deceived or depraved judgement, notwithstanding all engagements to the public and long habit of private obedience; must the Master be censured? as though the Minister or Magistrate reclaimed all,  
Nor yet can this assertion be certainly collected from our present Divisions, the equally pernicious effects of those dismal Distractions: for as through the divine goodness in these benefactions no remarkable failleur appears among us in the carrying on his public service, so need not any certainly that are in holy Orders be unemployed, if in the common Faith there were Unity of Affection.   

§. 23.  
Neither can this excess of learned men be necessarily inferred from the discontents of others. Much heed should not be given to casual complaints of such who are always apt to conceive their proceeding short of their merit. For whither should we turn over these supernumerary Scholars? To the more profitable Plough? Alas! Corn is a Drug. Farmers through up their Leases, they are so undone with Plenty. To grazing? Wool bears no price in the Market. But yet to other more beneficial Manufactures, the Tailor, the Hatter, the Weaver, others; these abound with men, want work. All Trades think themselves overstocked: some have fancied the World to be so, that if men did not in Wars kill one another, they must eat one another. This supposition may yet be perhaps ill-grounded. All men are not thriving in any profession. Some in all would live alone upon the Earth. Magistrates here moderate and by the Prudence of their Orders remove obstructions to Trade, that Work be not wanting to the Industrious; as also provide encouragements for Industry, that Laborers be not wanting to the Work.   

§. 24.  
Neither yet can this abundance of Scholars be enough evidenced from the multitude of Country Free-Grammar-Schools: for, if the matter be nearly regarded, many of these Foundations by their constitution or narrow Revenue are only Nurseries of Piety and Letters, as preparatory to Trade. This discrimination in every County duly made, would depress the swellings of minds possessed with prejudice arising from the growing numbers of these Houses of all sorts, yet supposed to prepare men for an unactive Life only. A wise Commissary will soon discern what passeth barely for muster, from what is firm and effective. Some Counties, both in England and Wales, slenderly provided of the conveniences of this Education. In Wales, where some Counties have good establishments, others not any, yet that defect is in no small measure repaired by the Marches, well fortified with these Foundations in more than ordinary number, through Herefordshire, Shropshire and the rest: elsewhere in England a Free-School, sometimes not erected, or without Scholar, or without School-house, or unendowed, or with incompetent endowment, or arbitrary for a Towns convenience, and revocable at the Patron's pleasure: some wholly, very many in part, having stocks to bind out for Husbandry or Trade. At best, the maintenance but of very few in a County, such as may vindicate Masters from being necessitous and contemptible; of the rest scarce what may invite the able, and give them freedom to be diligent. This preparation is not like to give terror to the State, though the provision may minister some relief to the Church.   

§. 25.  
Whether it were Hen. 8. by dissolving Monasteries, and alienating their possessions: or his Norman and Saxon Predecessors that erected them, and by the Indulgence of Popes annexed Benefices to them, made their Lands Tith-free, or occasioned the tithe of them to be redeemed at a mean composition; whether of these parties it was that impoverished the Church, is controverted. Farther how far what is devoted to God upon false suggestions is confiscable to the King. Again legal settlements upon the faith of Kings and Popes how advisable it was to move, I suppose the privy Counsel then concluded for Church-revenues granted to Votaries tith-free, were in effect so to their Tenants, who also upon the attainder of their Landlords had the opportunity of praeemption. But to pass over these nice points. The Free-Schools have bred up such Pastors as have much dispelled the ignorance that had overspread the whole Church: and with the better men cut of that entail of contempt under which the Parochial Curate so long lay.  
And indeed had Free-Schools furnished meaner Vicarages only, they might then have been born with silence: but from these Nurseries have been sometimes taken such who passing through subordinate steps of preferment have been at length seated in the highest pitch of Ecclesiastical Dignity; the Seat of Princes. Arch-Bishops have founded Free-Schools; and if Piety, Prudence and Learning by their King approved have advanced any to that Seat which at times hath becn with like Virtues adorned by Persons of Noble and Royal extraction, what room is left for envy? By such steps have others ascended in the State to great Trust. Why then should it seem cause of offence to any that in a matter of highest moment to be managed with Prudence and Courage the scrutiny should not always run upon favour or wealth? Prince's would not be confined to employ men of title or money, but in some Affairs of State require abilities well purchased at the expense of both the other. Should then the Lord of all have less choice in his Ministers? Indeed if the certain labours and danger of the Sacred Function be put in the Balance with the possible honour and profits, there is no place for just resentment that either Nobles or the sons of the Menu (as one styleth those that are born of the Commonalty) should partake of both indifferently.  
This place seems proper to rectify an opinion about the multitude of poor conceived to be bred up to Learning. That I may keep close to our age and Nation, the Gentry, the Plebeians, and the poor considered, of those that come to the University, the poor Servitor in all Colleges is for number inconsiderable. The Plebeian, that is, son of the Yeoman or Trades-man, not many, and for subsistence oftentimes not worst provided for. May not then this ungentle Reflection, however let fly, light upon the younger Sons of the Gentry. There are Privileges in the way of an ingenuous Education allowed the poor, and since upon the issue of an unnatural War, or otherwise; many Families of Gentlemen may have rendered their Children honestly poor, nothing but an averseness to learning can dispauper them. But suppose we otherwise. Obscurity of birth is no Canonical obstruction. The poor received the Gospel: and sure they that receive it, may deliver it. There is an honest ambition in many of mean Fortune: Generous seeds which would be cherished. The Jewish Doctors enjoin Children be taught a Trade: but above all Trades the Law. The better gifts all should follow: though all cannot in the same degree obtain.   

§. 26.  
The temper of the world in variety of dispositions as in diversity of Sexes is ordered by a Providence more than human. But, besides our own inclinations, the will of Parents, our fortunes narrow or over-large alike avert from attendance on studies, and determine our counsels so, that we are disposed by a choice mixed, with necessity. But work to be sure directs as to the number of Laborers, though ordinarily reward excite industry. He that saith England is over-stock'd with Scholars for the proportion of its preferments, and for its employment for Lettred Persons, would do well seriously to consider who may with any right be termed a Scholar: what is to a modest mind preferment: and how large the employment for Lettred Persons is in so great a Church and State. Suppose we therefore first adult proficients, such as are fit to be employed and may need as well as deserve, to be preferred to a subsistence: what, I mean, may not discredit their profession, and may comfort them in their labours. Then, not insisting, at present, upon other of the superior Faculties, regard we nearly the occasions of Divinity. This Employment is large; as conversant about divers Millions of Persons in England and Wales. It is of necessity; as wherein the care of Souls is concerned. It must be performed with diligence; fidelity and prudence, as being the Lords work. Compute we therefore the yearly number of Inceptours in Arts in the Universities: in both perhaps about three hundred by which number 15000 Incumbencies or Titles being divided, will produce a Quotient of more years than Masters, after their commencing do usually attain unto: in which the Succession of Ministers circulates. But must the collation of H. Orders, or benefices be restrained to degrees? What the Canons of the Church and Statutes of the Realm, have not positively enjoined neither doth this disquisition suggest: but because some knowledge in Languages and Arts with skill in the H. Scriptures hath been ever accounted preparatory to the Ministry; because proficiency cannot amongst us be otherwise more publicly known, and because dignities have been usually conferred upon those, who by this means have been found eminent, I know no Argument in this case more decretory. This also, with other proofs, Bishops do respect as a good testimonial: and Archbishop Chichley did in his time order that Livings of the greater value should be conferred on Persons that had taken the higher degrees.  
Before this account pass for evidence it may reasonably be demanded whether many are not used in the Church before any of the complete degrees taken. To which this reply will be offered, that if many leave the University before the taking of such Degree, and enter upon employment, a great part of them afterwards return to take it: the rest were they not straightened in maintenance or perhaps encumbered with domestical cares would proceed; and therefore, further, towards satisfying the demand, if we resume the former calculation, not one in five will be found to arrive at 50 years' Master: so large is the period of succession assigned. Indeed the matter in question is in its own nature incapable of full demonstration because the term of Life is uncertain. Such estimate however as may nearest approach truth is needful to direct practice. And, unless a Paralogism can be discovered in the present account, it will remain highly probable that there are not too many Scholars in England for the necessary employment for lettred Persons, whatever the provision for them be.   

§. 27.  
Neither want there grounds of conjecture that the number of Free-Grammar-Schools is not excessive, else what means it that so many private ones are every where judged allowable? that divers Parishes find themselves necessitated to entertain Masters upon a voluntary contribution? no specious reasoning can conclude against experience. With far greater reason do the Canons of our Church give liberty to all Vicars and Curates to take out a licence to teach Grammar. And the Canon-Law forbids under severe penalties the not granting freely, that is without purchase, such licence to any 
a R. Moses ben Maimon. tract. de study legis. cap. 2. Sect 6. Crescat Lex & magnificetur.  person duly qualified desiring it. Much better Catholics are they therefore that have promoted the good institution of many by providing maintenance for Teachers, than those who being otherwise disposed propagate evil surmises to the disparagement of these Charities, and avert the purposes of such who had intended further encouragement to Learning.   

§. 28.  
Free-Schools not too many! (will they say) the case is plain, for where are there any such in England? Hereupon with heat enough urge the intention of Donors every where abused: salaries paid, yet tutorage, for all that, no where remitted: not without some imputation upon Masters, as from the Canon-Law of a certain species of simony: but, as to this, more cannot in equity be desired then that the number of Free Scholars be proportioned to the Revenue: 
b Joannes de Turrecremata sup. Decr. 2. Part. in c. non solum. 1. q. 3. Si Magistris praefatis non sufficiant stipendia Ecclesiae vel si etiam nullum stipendium habent ab Ecclesiâ possunt exigere salarium moderatum: & si sponte offertur, possunt accipere, etiamsi sua sibi sufficiant.  if the maintenance be not competent, Masters may require moderate consideration for their Labour: what is offered, they may receive; however sufficient their allowance be. Only provided that they regard the poor with equal diligence, and affection as any others what ever they pay: Charity would not that the painful Teacher be overburdened to ease the 
a Glossa in pauperes gratis instrueret. Divitibus gratis laborem suum impendere non tenetur. The Master may impart his doctrine freely, yet set a price on his Labour. The Lawyer rightly demands his see for pleading. The Judge, Witness, Lawfully demand their charges to be born. The Bishop his procuration at Visitations de cr. l. 2. tit. 26. Cum ex officii.  Rich Scholar: nor that the means intended for his relief be made a pretence to oppress him: but rather that a 
b 1. q. 1. cap. qui studet Gloss. in sanitatis. Magister non recipit pecuniam pro scientia, quam dat, sed pro labore vel honore, sicut propheta recipit. Gloss. Decret. B. 5. Tit. 5. cap. de Magist. etc. Beneficium ei constitui debet secundum dignitatem & scientiam suam sicut advocatis.  Honorary be set him out according to his dignity and knowledge. The Prudence as well as Piety of some Bishops hath appeared in deciding this controversy, where the stipend hath been narrow, and the freedom expressed in terms not particular; they have limited the number of such as should enjoy it to a just proportion. Arts, and Sciences, and Faculties, have Analogy with gifts Spiritual, and therefore the Law which enjoins to impart our Temporals to such as have communicated their Spirituals to us holds in the Catechist as well as in the Priest: indeed the same Peter is Pastor of the Lambs as of the Sheep. And after a sort one lot is common to the Schoolmaster and the Minister; the flock, the warfare, the labour, the hope not unlike: but to dwell upon this subject might incur a sinister interpretation. The more ingenuous of this Land, such as have regard to Learning, are not wont to undervalue the right manners of their Children nor the Tutor's pains. The rest nothing can reconcile to put their Sons to that way of breeding, but a visible assurance that it shall in the issue turn to more advantage than it is ordinarily seen to do.   

§. 29.  
The connexion between Church and State hath rightly been observed to be intimate: their interest, inseparable: their growth, state and declination uniform: and the crisis of both in the neglect or favour extended to Schools. Learning, the Nurse of Civility and Religion, is ordinarily found in flourishing Empire: whether as cause or effect, or rather as being mutually productive each of the other; whereas in extreme degeneracy of manners a contempt of Teachers of its own nature and merit tends to farther calamity. 
a Sueton. Aug. 42  Augustus' founder of the Roman Empire protected Professors. 
b Id. Domit. 10.  Domitian the later Nero and last Emperor of the Flavian Family banished Philosophers the Town. Trajan, Hadrian, Antonine the Philosopher, and Alexander Severus all of them men of refined parts, and eminent for encouraging Lettred Persons; were also not unsuccessful in their Government. 
a Sextus Aurelius Victor, and Paulus Diaconus.  Licinius insense against Letters (which not for want of ignorance he would call the very bane and plague of the State) especially the pleading in Courts of Judicature, and withal the Christian faith, through his boisterous and brutish valour, being of rude and rustical extraction embroiled his Country in Civil Wars, and with the blood of many thousand Citizens, and his own, quenched those fiery Persecutions which had for several Ages tried the Church as in a furnace. 
b C. de Professoribus & Medicis. l. 6. Medicos & maxim Archiatros.  Constantine the founder of New Rome, and who rendered the Empire Christian favoured Learning. A Decree of his is extant whereby having granted Physicians, and especially Doctors that waited in Ordinary on the Emperor, or that had waited in Ordinary on the late Emperors, Grammarians and other Professors of Learning with Doctors of Law to be free from all public charges with their Wives, Children and all they possess, not to be burdened with freequarter in the Provinces, nor to bear office, nor to be arrested, nor impaneled, nor bound to any Personal appearance, nor molested (otherwise the Delinquent to be punished at the Judge's discretion) he further adds his command, that their wages and salaries be effectually paid that so they may with more liberty attend the breeding up many in liberal Sciences and the Arts above mentioned. 
a Ammian. Marcellin. B. 21. Illud autem inclemens, obruendum perenni silentio, quo, etc. Greg. Naz. Stelit. 1.  Julian the Apostate, by an ungracious edict, worthy to be wrapped up in eternal silence, shut up Schools against the Christians, and prohibited all Masters of Rhetoric and Grammar to teach any of that Profession those Arts and Faculties which he fond termed peculiar to the Greek, as he would have meant, Heathen, but his fall in Persia proved infamous to the Roman name. On the other side 
b C. de Professoribus & Medicis. L. 11. Grammaticos, Oratores, atque Philosophiae professores.  Theodosius the Great settled large immunities on Students. Afterwards upon the incursion of the Northern nations, while Schools were either wholly neglected, or not competently encouraged (for both failings in their degree redound upon the public) into what barbarity of Learning, manners and Religion did Europe soon revolt? and was not the study of the Holy Scriptures, the integrity and Truth of divine service at once with good Arts and Disciplines restored? A passage which shall be subjoined take only as an Argument of that light esteem of this calling which is easy to be impressed upon the Vulgar by men true to their own interests at the hazard of others reputation. The ingenious Boccace in his Decameron; the first days discourse 
a Edition at Venice, Anno 1552.  Novel 4. had told a Tale of a Monk that having fallen into a sin deserving the most grievous punishment yet with credit saved himself from suffering any at all, by recriminating upon his Abbot, the very same fault. This foul charge the Inquisitors appointed by Pius V. thought no ways expedient to remain upon the file to the scandal of the Brotherhood as taxing the Luxury of Friars in an Author so much in the hands of all Italy, and the most neighbouring Countries, and therefore having erased Monk and Abbot they dextrously substituted Scholar and Master: as though that Relation were less sacred. Not to aggravate this disreputation beyond the jest, imposed more to the convenience of the relators than the merit of the Subject defamed; they who should go about to persuade a suppression or diminution of Country Grammar Schools in England besides that they seem not duly to have examined the occasions of this Church: so neither understand they the temper of our Kings and People; donations however small have been in good measure rescued from the dissolutions of Religious Houses and preserved amidst the Sales of Fee-farm Rents: nay, even in the late Invasion of Church and Crown-Lands. Kings of Spain know best what matters are inconvenient and prejudicial to their Kingdom. Perhaps their Schools might be too many. The same degree of Light is not convenient to all eyes. Perhaps else their state hath not thrived the better since the diminution of them. Kings of England have graffed upon these Policies, this conscience; that their Subjects pay them a rational obedience: that they ground their Faith upon principles of sound knowledge: and where men have failed of duty, their cause hath been pleaded by a superior power: so that in the issue, those principles and that reason of their subjects however a while clouded through prejudices, or through wrong insinuations seduced, hath returned upon them more powerful, then standing Armies: hath struck the Top-gallant of their ill-Victorious Fleets to waft home their natural Sovereign and the Royal Family: nor can there any surer pledge be given for a durable Loyalty to be transmitted to posterity then a Conscience rightly informed by good education.   

§. 30.  
Since then the Crown of England hath been so munificent in erecting, so chaste in preserving the Schools of this Land with their Revenues: since the Lords both Spiritual and Temporal with the people of divers ranks, have with no small success carried on the work: this work so necessary to the Church and beneficial to the State, let not our ingratitude retard or frustrate. There are corners of the Land yet but thinly furnished with these helps. There arise also not seldom persons touched with strong inclinations of disposing some portion of what means God hath blessed them with, to such use as may best serve their Country. Amongst other charities, some are apt to conceive what is extended to children, to be to the public, not the least fruitful, and to them most helpful, especially wherein it improves them in knowledge, and good manners: and thereupon would determine upon that object, if the occasion were evident. Now if convenient place offer, as such foundations have been argued, to bring a local and public benefit, so that they do not necessarily overstock the Land with Scholars, but rather improve such as shall design that way, this instance may render somewhat probable: that from those Counties where are hardly any Free-Schools, there come not the fewest Scholars to the University, though not always so well grounded as where better means of Learning is publicly afforded.   

§. 31.  
Now as prime Founders are worthy to be had in perpetual and blessed memory; so following Benefactors, which have left any Augmentation of Revenue, deserve no less to be celebrated for their like pious affection. Were the particular salaries of Masters throughout the Land, as in a Table set forth, it is not to be feared lest their ample patrimony should excite the Covetousness or Envy of the Reader: nothing rather might seem a more effectual motive to the well disposed to enlarge their beneficence, than the weighing the assiduous labours of Teachers against their incompetent maintenance. Be it the condition ordinarily does not require those large expenses which higher Stations exact: yet to be abbridg●d in necessaries, must needs discourage labour: and the mind under daily distractions can less intend its more desirable charge. Add hereto the manifold indecencies of indigence in the exercise of the meanest authority, accompanied with many temptations: nothing is of its own nature more expensive than want: whether it seek out diversion from the importunities of care, or call in foreign aids to repress the insults of danger. The divine providence is not to be limited, nor yet tempted. He that can work above or without means, yet requires of us all possible endeavour after honest means. Should I perchance here intimate that the straightened labourer is some object of pity, especially in Towns populous well traded and replenished with youth, where the number of Scholars cannot be well taught without an Assistant; when the stipend already appointed is but tolerable living for one man; the train of this Discourse, would by no means be interpreted to reflect on the munificence of first Donors. It is well known what was really plentiful in our forefather's days, is now become really less than sufficient, nor would it be understood to move a promiscuous and unseasonable compassion. The Nobility and Gentry of this Land, would be found upon the review; to have been greatly favourable to Scholars; but since the furies of these Civil-Wars, Domestical wounds bleed inwardly. The rude have run down the ingenuous. Only the Prince and an industrious Age can cure these breaches. Other Laborers there are, who may come in for share of relief. The sum of this discourse is, that, whosoever are so disposed, and with whose particular affairs it may comport, be assured, that among their other Charities, whatsoever they bestow in Augmentation of poor Schoolmasters living, is not unacceptable to him who hath ordained that whosoever labours, should upon his labours competently subsist.   

§. 32.  
Then, because want of sufficient maintenance, and consequently of like Residence at the University renders men less firmly grounded in Arts and Divinity; and thereby less capable of serving Church and State to that degree which otherwise they might: not only those Kings, Prelates, and other Nobles, who have largely endowed ample Colleges, deserve honourable commemoration with posterity; but such other Patriots, who of less abundance have yet conferred to the maintenance of one or more Students at the University. Upon which this twofold question may arise, whether such Exhibitions as are appropriated to a School, County, or certain Counties; or such other as are indefinitely given without limitation of place, be more conducible to the public. Again, whether such as are for a certain term of years, or those as to time undetermined. The question is not, but that the will of Donors be kept inviolable. Local Benefactions were given out of peculiar respect to the inhabitants of such place to which the Benefactor was some way related: but over and above these, some men of enlarged fortunes and spirits, have out of regard to their whole Country left full choice of their Exhibitioners to the free discretion of their Feoffees. Again, Temporary provisions at a certain period expiring, engage the Pensioner to seek out early employment, and returning upon others, communicate the beneficence to a greater breadth: though the longer the term is, they more assist to maturity and constancy of judgement, so that Exhibitions of shortest date may be said most to multiply Scholars, while the perpetual may more advance Learning. And were there more of these Exhibitions, whether to Schools or Counties, or otherwise unlimited then as to the character of the receiver for a competent time, or till preferment to sufficient maintenance in the judgement of the trusties, perhaps, we should not have more Scholars, but more Graduates: fewer virulent invectives and unlearned disputations about nice questions, to distract and grieve the consciences of those whom they should rather support and direct: which may probably have contributed to that opinion, as if there were already too many Scholars.  
As to the greater Schools whereon any Exhibitions are settled, the very expectation of the reward draws resort thither, and excites an emulation in Learning and good deportment. This extends a benefit farther than what the actual Exhibitioners receive, and is a Lottery in truth without hazard. As the use of Prize-Plates in a County is not terminated in the pleasure or profit of Victory, but propagates a love and care of that generous exercise of Horsemanship throughout the whole Land against necessary occasions, and upon any sudden emergency: nor do these provisions, nor would they, were they more numerous than they yet are (respect being still had to the Country wherein we live) burden the Land with multitude of unnecessary Scholars, but furnish the functions both of Church and State after their several capacities with apt Instruments without impeachment to the Rich and Noble, who stand always recommended by their more benign Stars whensoever they please to offer themselves to undergo the fatigues of preparation and business.   

§. 33.  
And could indeed the Education in Free-Schools approve its qualification so that the Gentry who now frequently judge themselves under a necessity of entertaining a Tutor at great charge in their own houses, or of boarding their Sons abroad at rates answerable to their quality, might be induced to trust their Children in their Town-School whereof they likely are Governor, then would they augment the stipend of the Master with the diminishing of their own expenses. A Gentleman's Son in a Free-School, if of his Town, converses with Neighbours, or perhaps Tenants Children; receives respect, returns courtesy: political virtues less capable of being exercised in a Parity, grows into an habitual esteem among his People, and is so much the greater as he is known to be such by those, who are conscious of their own meanness and distance. Having escaped from the indulgence of Parents, and flattery of servants, he is not translated into a select Society, being unacquainted with emulations and formalities, unwary of friendships, only durable till by respective interests divided; but betimes engages in a mixed conversation, the true image of life: here strips himself, I mean, to severe labour: with his form as in a ring, takes the place due to his Industry, not his Birth, and begins to see somewhat in persons of lower fortunes worthy to be honoured. Moves strongly after wisdom, whether born on by the press, or himself, leading a troop of Fellow-students: profits by the praises, reproofs, admonitions made to others; nay, the very dross of vulgar rudeness and misdemeanour, the only momentous dissuasive from a promiscuous breeding, even that will make his domestical virtuous education shine the brighter, and by the punishment of others, he will stand corrected or confirmed in good habits, and stick the closer to them as to his chief security when afterwards he comes into the World. Judicious Persons, such as these Parents generally are, cannot affect to purchase this separate way of Breeding, because private Masters are in less subjection, or dwell better. The room for study is but a sojourning, not an habitation, its meanness the more endears the Parent's house. Other arguments, I think, weigh to the advantage of the public, if the Master be allowed of parts and discretion: now Country Foundations are not seldom provided with Teachers, that have been bred up themselves in the greater and Collegiat Schools, or otherwise very sufficient.   

§. 34.  
One word, though possibly not required, may yet not unseasonably be here interposed. These measures of reasoning would not be too boldly extended to the Nobility. They are designed for highest Operations in the State: born Peers of the Realm: the most ancient and presiding part of the great Council of the Kingdom. Their Honour and Interest in the Country safe and planted, so that what is prudent in the best of the Commonalty may not be ordinate to their Affairs. A pale not of caution only, but of Veneration is to be set about them: and therefore they may challenge a Privilege of peculiar education. Domestical, if they judge it expedient: though were the Annals of Eton, Westminster, and Winch●ster extant, not excluding some other Schools of note, many very excellent personages of the Nobility, would stand recorded in those places where with Arts and Languages they received those deferences which their Honourable Birth might justly require, and were instructed what offices of duty or civility, from them especially, would be expected: there have they understood in the prime Master of Latin comedy improved, poor old Hegio bespeaking the great and wealthy Demea 


a Terent. Adelph. Act. 3. Sc. 4. V. 56; 7, 8, 9  Quam vos facillime agitis, quam estis maxume,  
Potentes, dites, fortunati, nobiles;  
Tam maxumè vos aequo animo aequa noscere  
Oportet, si vos voltis perhiberi prob●s.   

As best you are to pass, as you are most  
Potent, Rich, Honourable, High of blood,  
So you of all men should be most content,  
Reason to do, if you would pass for good.    
There have they drawn from the fountain Sarpedons' speech to Glaucus (it is rendered out of Greek from the Prince of Poets in an English Paraphrase by the late most ingenious Sir John Denham.)  

a Homer II. 12. from V. 310. to V. 329. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉; etc.  Divine Sarpedon, since he did not find  
Others as great in place, as great in mind.  
Above the rest, why is our Pomp, our Power,  
Our flocks, our herds, and our possessions more? etc.  
But that as well in danger, as degree,  
We stand the first; that when our Lycians see,  
Our brave examples, they admiring say,  
Behold our gallant Leaders! These are they  
Deserve the greatness; and unenvied stand:  
Since what they act, transcends what they command etc.   

§. 35.  
But, to digress no longer from the straight course of this Inquisition; resume we what even just before came cross into observation that the fruit of Country Schools in good measure depends upon an opinion of the Master, to the Electors of whom more than truth and honesty is required: therefore prudent Founders have been circumspect as to that point; and where certain Townsmen upon the place have been allowed most proper Governors as to the management of the Revenue, and Execution of the Statutes, yet Colleges in one of the Universities have been judged sometimes more competent Patrons, and rather with the Diocesan, consulted in the compiling those Ordinances of Government: for instance in 
a Advised by Letter, from the Reverend Doctor David Morton, of Saint John's College in Cambrige Fellow.  one College.  
That eminent School of Shrewsbury when it was first founded by King Edw. 6. by procurement of Mr. Edwards (ancestor to Sir Francis now living in the College) had an upper and under Master only, nominable by the Bailiffs and Burgesses of the Town of Salop, who had also power of making ordinances for Government of the School and salaries of the Masters, yet with advice of the Lord Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield. But when afterwards Q. Elizabeth visited the place upon occasion, a fairer establishment was made for 4 Masters and a Catechist. In drawing up the orders the Head Master used (who had been instrumental in procuring the new settlement) with the advice also and authority of the then Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield: this was done upon better stipends for all the Masters; and uses appointed for the stock remanent or surplusage. But what directly concerns the purpose of this allegation in this following Article; that, when any of the 3 first Schoolmasters places shall be void, the Bailiffs (now Mayor) of the Town shall within 20 days after notice to them (or him) given, make advertisement thereof to the Master and Fellows of Saint John's College in Cambridge, with request to them to elect and send to the said Bailiffs (now Mayor) one able, meet, and apt Person for that purpose. The Composition runs thus. 1 One born in the Town of Salop, the Legitimate Son of a Burgess there and having been a Scholar in the Free-school; in defect whereof. 2 One born within the Franchises of the said Town Legitimate Son of a Burgess, and that hath been a Scholar also in the same School. 3 One born in the County of Salop (the preference given to Cherbury and brought up in the same School. 4 One born in any other County the preference always had to such as have been of the School. The Schoolmaster so nominated by the Master and Fellows of Saint John's College Cambridge shall be allowed and sworn by the Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, and afterwards by the Bailiffs (now Mayor) of the Town, who if they have reasonable cause to mislike him, shall certify such cause of their mislike, to the said Master and Fellows who are then to proceed to a new election in form abovesaid.  
In Sedburgh Yorkshire founded by Roger Lupton Doctor of the Canon-Law and Provost of Eton, the Master and Fellows of Saint John's College in Cambridge are always to nominate and elect a Master within a Month after every vacancy certified; upon default the Governors with the consent of the Diocesan for that turn elect.  
In Pocklington, the same County of Yorkshire, the Free-School founded by John Dowman (or Dolman) Doctor of Laws, and Archdeacon of Suffolk at first entrusted to the Master, Wardens and Brethren of the Guild there: upon that Dissolution was by Act of Parliament. 5 Edw. 6 so far transferred to the Master and Fellows of Saint John's College in Cambridge that the Nomination of Schoolmaster within two Months after vacancy belongs to them which otherwise for the turn lapses to the Lord Arch Bishop of York.  
In Rivington Lancashire, founded by James Pilkington Bishop of Durham the Governors within 6 weeks after the vacancy of a Master recommend to the Master and Fellows of the same Saint john's 2 persons who have been Students in either of the Universities for 4, or 3 years at the least, of the Age of 24 years; one of which the said Master and Fellows are to elect.  
In Stamford Lincolnshire, founded by Master William Radcliffe of that Town, the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Master of Saint john's in Cambridge appoint the Schoolmaster there.  
In Spalding in the same County founded by Mr. John Gamlin and Mr. John Banks if the 4 Governors or major part of them fail to elect a Schoolmaster within 40 days after vacancy, the Master and Senior Fellows of the same St. john's shall nominate and appoint a fit man Schoolmaster there.  
Lastly, in Aldenham Hertfordshire, founded by Richard Plate Citizen and Brewer London. The Master was appointed at first to be chosen by the Masters, Wardens and Assistants of the Company of Brewers London, the Governors of the School at a Court wherein 12 or more shall be assembled, by an Instrument dated June 1. 41 Eliz. but, upon later thoughts, by a new Instrument dated Nou. 28. 43 Eliz. the aforesaid Governors are bound within 14 days after notice of the Avoidance, or sooner, to direct their Letters under their common Seal to the Master and Fellows of St. John's Camb. to desire them to commend to their Election and nominate within one month after, 3 Masters of Arts, one of which is to be chosen by them. After this why should I mention Sidney Sussex College for Houghton Conquest? why Emanuel for Godmanchester? why Trinity Coll. for Stevenage Hartfordshire, for Vtoxeter, Staffordshire? or what need I dilate in Oxford upon New College for Adderberry or for the nomination of two for Thame whereof the Lord Norris elects one? upon Corpus Christi for Chelt'nham? upon Queen's College for Childrey Berkshire, Norleech Gloucestershire, Appleby Westmoreland? upon Brazen-nose for Charleberry, Steeple-Ashton Oxfordsh. Middleton Lancashire? The sum of this large enumeration would amount to this inference; that the annexing the Patronages of Country Free-Schools to several Houses in one or the other University hath been experienced mutually beneficial: and may be practised under such articles of composition, as that the Towns may reserve what real privilege of presentation they can value, and, what is of greatest import, secure an able Master, while at the same time they communicate to such Hall or College the collation of their School, the resort of their Exhibitioners: and as they may pleasure them with the supplying of Pensioners, so may no doubt at times be pleasured in the having their hopeful poor Scholars received. The connexion between Collegiate Schools and their correlative Colleges conduces to their common good, and evinces that there are cases, wherein restraint may be to advantage: though neither would that be so rigid as that the pension presently desert him, who upon some farther step of advancement removes from that Roof. Since the attacking small Exhibitions to inconvenient Houses, is, by an incompetent provision to avert the Receiver from the pursuit of a reasonable subsistence; but this cause having different merits nor to be determined by any general rule of practice would be reserved entire to the discretion of the trusties. What hath been thus freely discoursed would be understood strictly of Country Schools, since all Corporations stand not in the same terms for skill, or choice of candidates as do Collegiate Churches and Ecclesiastical Patrons or Noblemen, or the greater Companies of London.   

§. 36.  
But let, whatsoever circumspection may, be granted in the choosing, this good opinion can be no otherwise durable then in the right comportment of Town and Master, each with the other. In all conditions of life regarding settlement and society this observation or experiment universally recurs that a fair esteem may be acquired from abroad, must be maintained at home. Now that a Master be able, of sound principles, and good example is supposed: that he be diligent in laying the Foundations of Religion, and of Arts and Sciences is required: (a task which Conscience and Affection to the work can only make easy.) And which will not want its reward: that he be dextrous in Teaching and Sagacious in discerning the temper of his Scholars are felicities of nature, yet improveable by experience. Now the former of these being secured, as to the two latter there is a latitude may be safely allowed. A growing Teacher, is not to be despised. And perhaps such difference is not with reason insisted upon by all. True, Alexander the Great would not sit to any but Apelles, nor be cast in Brass by any other, but Lysippus: and though every one's darling, be his little Alexander, yet every Age and Place cannot furnish him an Aristotle for his Tutor. It is not necessary that all Towns at all times be supplied with the best. He that professeth the Art of Dancing should be well behaved, of a modest garb and mien, nor unready at usual Dances, the received Laws and performances of his profession; and then persons of very good quality may without danger either enter upon learning, or practice with him, what they have elsewhere learned: although he be less airy, nor so absolute a Master of the Foot as some others may pretend to be. Townsmen do not all understand Greek and Latin yet they can read deportment and industry either directly in the Schoolmaster; or in the more obvious reflections at home upon their Children committed to his charge. Only they would be desired not to suspect what they less comprehend. Those who profess the study of wisdom they see to be men: have like passions with themselves: short of perfection. But they should nevertheless persuade themselves that learning is the nurse of diligence, bridle of the appetite, exercise of unfeigned humility, and in every condition the surest antidote against discontent and faction; and therefore they would be desired to think their faithful Schoolmaster what in a sort he is, a fellow-Laborer with their Minister: one who hath put on all the affections of the Father, except fondness: that so by forming a right esteem of his work, they may set a true value upon his Person.   

§. 37.  
Now because the Patrimony of Schoolmasters, for the generality, whether small or somewhat greater, being wholly committed to the custody of Feoffees, must needs in the dispensing be straightened or enlarged upon motives to the Teacher unavoidable; the matter of enfeoffement in this consideration would not be altogether neglected. The ancient way therefore of enfeoffing most Parochial Donations since the Conquest was to invest the trust in the two Churchwardens and the Parson: where the stipendiary Priest was removable at the will and pleasure of men not always of the greatest judgement: the latter practice since Henry the Eighth hath reposed these trusts in Corporations themselves who have often aimed at as large power of suspending the continuance of the Schoolmaster, not on his behaviour, but their private discretion; whereas, by the way, the Patents last age run, juxta eorum sanam discretionem: now a legal will in a Corporation is different from their will and pleasure: a style incommunicable to any Subject; for though Sovereigns need not always declare and remonstrate, but rest often satisfied with a conscience of the justice of their proceedings, yet is it an essential property of subordinate authority to render an account. This absolute dependence cannot but retard the endeavours, and may endanger to shake the steadfastness of the best resolved Teacher. Some Founders have nominated the chief of their Neighbours to the Government of their Foundations. These were intent on their ability to protect them: on their plenty, judged not to stand in need of retribution; and therefore called in worshipful and honourable assistance without other regard had to them then the counting them worthy to undertake the overseeing their Charity. But practice rectifies that opinion. And persons of high place and employment not obtaining leisure from their own, or the public important occasions to attend the rule of a petty School, have often waved the trust. For what honour is there in an accession of trouble without profit? or where the reward of Business is not specified, would the reward there (may some think) be meant unlimited? Though Charity may more particularly require this liberal inspection of some great ones upon whom the title of their Family-beneficence descends. Local Governors are certainly most proper, and the highest would be rather not past by, then affected. One instance of enfeoffement may be here worthy the remark. Upon the latter erection of that great School of Shrewsbury abovementioned which was in the thirteenth of the Queen, the Statutes upon mature deliberation revised, and a new settlement made, it was ordained; the Mayor of the Town and Head-School-Master join in letting out the School-lands. An honest constitution since by that means neither will the Townsmen lie under a temptation to misconvert the pious use, nor shall the Master be able to impair the School-Revenue. Besides it may be accounted not very reasonable, that a Master of Arts formerly at the University thought fit to be entrusted with the disposal of his Pupils allowance, should now be again reduced into Pupillage: the only man in the Parish judged proper from whom the value of his estate be concealed. Be the tenure in almain it is not without precedent, that even in Hospitals some chosen Almesmen have enjoyed the like power and privilege. Every body consists upon its own Laws: but that constitution is less liable to corruption from at home or abroad, where not only Conscience but Fame is secured.  
Indeed where the wages for Teaching issued out of the public stock of Corporations, the Masters were to be allowed anciently among the Romans by 7 of the 
a C. de Professoribus & Medicis L. 7. Magistros studiorum Doctoresque.  Decuriones or Aldermen, and received a licence for Teaching from the Bench, or Town-Hall of that Borough, whereby they were entitled to several profits and immunities. These were limited to a certain number, which number was in the same order of election supplied upon the vacancy of any place upon the 
b L. 10. Siquis in Archiatri defuncti locum: with L. 5. Nec intra numerum.  death of the former Incumbent or his 
c L. 2. Grammaticos seu Oratores.  removal. For Gordian the Emperor declares it as a ruled case that if upon trial the Master were found unuseful he was removable by the same authority whereby he had been approved. Thus to survey differing Feoffments, although it draw with it no necessary consequence of innovating unduly what is already established, yet where the matter is under consultation, and in settlements not yet made, variety of Patterns compared may be serviceable towards determining the choice with more success.   

§. 38.  
The divers orders and customs of Schools upon such occasion too considered might have their use. Let none expect here a Body of Scholastical Policy: Herein the Statutes of many eminent Foundations prescribe with great Authority, nevertheless it may be needful in this place to mention, that public Schools are ordinarily regulated by some Statute of superannuation: if Children give slender hopes of proving Scholars after 7 years' trial in learning of the Grammar, they are to be removed out of the number: now those years are usually the more unfit for labour, and most capable of good impressions, during which time the more averse they were to their Book, yet having been inur'd to watchfulness and diligence, to subjection and hardship, they prove often from that very frustration the more resolved and active in such other employment to which they freely betake themselves. Idle Drones and hurtful Wasps no where less safe, more readily discovered and sooner expelled then from these Hives.  
Again, methods of teaching sound and sufficient here strictly enjoined, and legitimately carried on have passed into a regular course of studies. Consistent with these public injunctions is a liberty still allowed improving Student's of retrenching some superfluous rule, adding an exception, altering a particular Hypothesis; Grammar maxims and the system established by Act of Parliament, always saved. But to demolish foundations out of private opinion daily changeable is a presumption of ill consequence to the public. Our modern Januists of the Latin and Greek tongue seem in great measure to leave Grammar and build upon Dictionary; as do others who practise without Rule, or by a Rule not Catholic. Due length of time and depth of culture withheld rather palliate ignorance then produce Scholarship; and Errors in the groundwork first laid are rarely corrected by the Scholar's after-diligence. Directions for delivering Languages and Arts, this enquiry dares not attempt: it is the work of Master builders: and some judicious Treatises are extant upon the same subject: to pass over foreign Didacticks, at home Ascham, Hoole, and the latest Mr. William Walker yet surviving hath after his wont manner solidly discoursed it. I shall only take leave at this present to consider one opinion which hath of late obtained among persons of very good quality; they have designed a son for the profession of the Law of the Land: thereupon would bar the Master from teaching him Poëtry and Greek as no ways ordinate to their Child's pretence. This declared pleasure of Parents will find no difficult admission with Masters, whatever their judgement be, and is readily embraced by the Scholar, because it saveth both of them much labour, whereof no man, at his own choice, is prodigal. Upon this occasion I shall not digress into a just defence of Poëtry, nor enlarge upon the excellencies of the Greek tongue: but to speak to both connexly and with submission; what of this reason falls under my comprehension only amounts to a caution against dwelling among Gentile superstitions, turning after the levity of some pieces, the Chimeras of others, being lost in empty ravishments, in a word, against making an employment of this however pleasing diversion to the prejudice of his further design: for when it shall again be considered, that the seasonable and moderate reading of Poets, whether Greek or Latin, elevates the thought; furnishes upon all occasions succinct, pertinent, well-humored discourse; impresses the passion requisite; nor contented with terms barely proper sets on strength of Argument with facetiousness of sense, and gaiety of phrase; these virtues considered, it may appear more adviseable to restrain this candidate of the Laws with due cautions that he may rather bind himself, then stop his Ears with Wax, while he passeth by these Sirens: besides, that, mispronouncing Latin in prose, incident to those that are unacquainted with Verse, blemishes the best Orator. His judgement rightly informed, this hopeful Student may profit himself, at these ingenuous recreations, and at spare-hours to no small advantage converse with the Poets of our own Language especially. Whether polite literature accomplish a common-Lawyer, for more reasons than one is not for me positively to determine: some shining instances in our own Age favour those that shall affirm it. There is a Reason and Equity common to all Laws: the Roman youth soon as designed Lawyers were delivered to some Master of Poëtry and Greek. 
a Oratio pro Archiâ Poetâ.  Tully saith of Aulus Licinius Archias, That from the utmost of his childhood as ever he could remember, that Poet and Grecian had been his director both to undertake and carry on his course of studies. Now because the Greek Poet was then questionable whether subservient to the Roman Orator he subjoins by way of prevention that he never was resigned up to be a mere Lawyer: and that all the liberal Arts and Sciences have a mutual affinity and connexion. Orderly disposition of matter of fact, apposite application of Law, with graceful utterance in opening a case may do a cause right. Poets furnish whereby the thought exhausted with pleading may be recruited, and the Ears wearied with the din of the Bar find repose: for having been strained at waging hard controversies, men are best relaxed and unbended by the more soft yet moral divertisements: soon after he adds, that the studies of other Faculties are comprehended in teaching, in Rules and Art; a Poet hath his excellency in his very nature, and is elevated on the wing of Fancy and as it were inspired with certain divine Raptures. Wherefore old Ennius doth by a just Prerogative call Poets sacred: because they seem to stand recommended to us by some especial Grace and Favor of Heaven. Be therefore sacred with men of so great Humanity this name of Poet, which no Barbarity ever violated. Rocks and deserts echo sounds: and savage Monsters oft are charmed and stop at Music. Should not we that have had ingenuous breeding be affected with the voice of Poets? Thus the Prince of Advocates with much more in his Master's behalf: somewhat might be farther added on the subject, but what hath been loosely noted here may render men less forward upon private notions though taken up with some colour of probability to recede from the approved ordinances of public Schools without like Authority.   

§. 39  
But that which is of far greater importance to Parents is best secured in public Schools, that their Children be trained up in the principles of Christian Religion, entire and uncorrupt: that they be built up in the fundamental points: by Catechism and other seasonable address.  
As for Catechism; the Church hath provided all her Children means of Instruction, chargeth Parents with their spiritual nurture, enjoineth Masters to promote this especially: and exacteth of the Children when grown, to account for the summary of Christian Doctrine received. A form is given to convey the substance: and therefore the Church hath not prohibited explaining that, or joining others with it. Nowells Catechism is enjoined to be taught in the School of St. Paul's by their local statutes. Vrsine translated into Greek by Hen. Stephens, with the Praxis of Berchet hath been elsewhere with good success learned: neither of them, I think, to exclude the Church Catechism; nor ought any other; for is it reasonable the Examinand should prescribe his Examinor what he should ask him? the Child his Pastor, his Bishop? or would a Child despise the Indulgence of his Poser, who should prompt him before hand, to every question the answer wherewith he would rest satisfied. There are many Catechisms, but one faith. There are many Grammars to one Language; yet that is the best to the Learner, that is taught in his Form: though perhaps a Scholar brought up in another method to some perfection in the Tongue the Master would not put back to be initiated in the same Elements. The Mother, the Nurse may teach a Child the Church Catechism, the Master must hear him repeat it: and may be thought most proper to carry him on to farther perfection. It is required of every one that is matriculated a Member in either University to subscribe the Articles of Faith and Religion which supposes him to have been informed in them: either by his Minister, or Schoolmaster.  
Neither would discourse, more particularly at certain seasons, be without a prudent direction to serious and useful points of Doctrine. In the Greek 
a S. Maximi Confessoris & Martyris 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 alternis Interrogat: & Respons.  Asceticks we may see a Novice putting Questions to an old Father upon Heads of Practical Divinity. 
b Talmud. Tract. de sab. quoted by Buxtorfe.  The Jews record memorable sayings of the Rabbins and bring in their Disciples ask the solution of what was allegorically delivered: prescribe Rules to the Scholar of a modest liberty in propounding 
c R. Moses ben Maimon Tractatu de studio Legis C. 4. Sect. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. Sect. 7. Dixerunt sapientes neque aut verecundum bene discere, aut iracundum bene docere, as in a MS translation of Mr. Isaac Abendana, eminently skilled in that Learning.  his doubts apposite to the present lesson and subject in discourse: as also to the Master of a gentle condescension in resolving those doubts: that he think it not grievous to repeat, to inculcate his instructions with regard to the difficulty of the matter in debate or slowness of the Learners comprehension. Thus have many Teachers been improved by forming an apt answer to pregnant questions proposed by their Auditors. And for our Instruction doubtless was 
d Luc. 2.43, 46.  the child Jesus found in the Temple sitting in the midst of the Doctors both hearing them and ask them questions. This work hath been carried on by exercise, or Books.  
As for Sundays and Festivals, Verses upon the proper Gospel, or Psalms: reading sacred Poems, Dialogues, Epistles, Meditations, Confessions, and such like pieces which have been set forth in a small form fitted for the use of young Learners. In divers Places the Statutes require over and above decent attendance on the public worship, that the Scholars be called to render an account of what they were taught. When St. chrysostom upon occasion had pressed his Auditors to the repeating at home what they had at Church heard: that every Housekeeper being returned would spread a double Table the one of bodily food, the other of the word of God and the Husband to recount what had been there spoken, the Wife to learn, the Children also to hear, nay the very servants not to be debarred from that repetition. 
a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. S. Chrysost. Edit. Savil. Tom. 5. Serm. 6. p. 21. lin. 34.  Make thy House (saith he) a Church as being accountable for the Souls of thy Family as the Minister stands charged with those of the whole Congregation: the people of Antioch hereupon broke out into loud 
b 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Id. Serm. 7. p. 22. l. 25, 26.  Acclamations, which that Father accepted, not as an empty Applause, but as the pledge of their obedience. As to the religious conduct of youth, I shall only add upon this Head that there is extant a Treatise of the same Fathers, anciently styled the 
a This Treatise is not to be found in the Savillian Edition.  Golden Book of Education, brought to light by the learned Combefis and rendered into English by Mr. John Evelyn: a person whose fruitful industry hath obliged his Country, nor ever to be mentioned by me without much honour.   

§. 40.  
Further, as care is taken that the Master's Salary be duly paid, so because the Tenure is not Frank-almain as was that of Abbeys, and may that of Hospitals be called, but what implys a duty to be performed which gives Title to the Reward, in many places besides the Governors, special Visitors are appointed; whether some Gentry by the designation of the Founder thought fit and willing to oversee the discharge of the trust, or some three or four Neighbour Ministers, who annually at certain prefixed time or times preside over the solemn exercise of the Scholars, and from their proficience estimate the abilities and diligence of the Master.  
After all which the Bishop as general Visitor both superintends the Master, and is Head of the Commission for charitable Uses. Indeed subordination and Dependency is the form of Bodies collective, without which nothing is strong: nothing is beautiful. The more immediate concern of the Church Organical successive is commended to the Bishop not only by the 
a 2 Tim. 2.2.  Holy Scripture but by the ancient 
b Canon. Apost. 2.  Canons, by 
c Concil. Tolet. 2. Anno 531. De his quos voluntas parentum à primis infantiae annis clericatus officio manciparit Statuimus observandum ut mox cum detonsi vel ministerio electorum contraditi. fuerint, in domo Ecclesiae, sub Episcopali praesentia, à praeposito sibi debeant erudiri. Constit. Eugen. (2) 37 dis. de quibusdam. Conc. Rom. 7. An 1078. Ut ommes Episcopi artes literarum in suis Ecclesiis doceri faciant.  Canon-Law and by the 
d 23 Eliz. 1. Jac. 4.14 Car. 2. Act of Uniformity.  Statutes of this Realm, and practise of all Ages and places Christian: the Ordinary gives licence to the Schoolmaster and exacts his duty, but withal the same with other Commissioners by him engaged vindicates School-Revenues detained by Executors, or interverted by trusties. As much fond as any are of Liberty, no man surely envys the greatness of that power which he apprehends for his own Interest. 
e Rom. 13.3. 1 Pet. 2.14.  And Interest in the highest Prelate may the poorest Schoolmaster assure by assiduity and vigilance over himself & his small flock. I shall only add upon this Head, that such seeming not to have considered enough their own weakness, draw upon themselves the low rate and esteem set upon this Profession, and gratify that whether overt hatred or inconsiderate policy of others in impeaching the growth and flourishing of the state Scholastic, whosoever do not with humble gratitude embrace that superabundant strength which God hath vouchsafed them from the King's Majesty the common Nursing Father of public Schools, in his gracious Letters Patents: from the High and Honourable Court of Parliament, in Laws made for their Immunity and Vindication: from worthy Neighbours or worshipful Companies of the great City, their vigilant and faithful Governors: from many of the Nobility, Gentry, or Neighbouring Ministers, often their special Visitors: lastly, from the Right Reverend their Diocesan, and Spiritual Father, always their general Visitor.   

§. 41.  
There remains another advantage of public Schools: the greatest benefit to Learners after the Master, is a good Library. Before the Art of Printing was discovered, when Books all written by hand were rare, and however less correct and complete to be purchased at excessive rates, those that set up Schools in the Provinces of the Empire Greek and Latin Heathen or Christian, provided themselves ordinarily with some store of Copies to promote the common studies of their Scholars with themselves. And even in that affluence of Books, which this present Age daily furnishes, although a Parent can afford to provide his Son of such as are cheap and portable for his present use as he proceeds in Learning, yet there are voluminous Authors, Pillars of a Library, which would highly advance Study, yet are not the purchase of every one that is most studious: and therefore best able to use them. In which regard a Library would even at the present be reputed a necessary Member of a School-House.  
This would not consist of promiscuous Books. English Histories, Treatises in Faculties, of Law, Physic and Divinity, unseasonably read intervert the time due for other studies preparatory to the Scholars daily exercise: and therefore Universities lay a prudent restraint on Artists, according to their several progress in the Faculty, to keep some years in Seats at the entrance of the public Library under Books of those Arts about which they are for that time conversant. Some having been questioned how it came to pass that former Ages who framed the very Theorems of those Sciences, in compiling and transforming the Systemes whereof we so much glory, could advance so far, have been ready to attribute it to the fewness of their Books upon this very account; not without some appearance of reason, though how truly, I list not here farther to inquire.  
Be therefore only proper and organical Books hither admitted and few of that sort would be excluded. He is a good Workman, that can use every Tool. Even those writings that are earnestly censured as hindrances to Scholarship; allowed with careful directions in their time and place, prove helps to proficiency. Better were it for the peace and comfort of Life if it fell out in matters of higher consequence that we were never prone to condemn and inveigh, where we should rather limit and caution. This Book is to be read over, that consulted only. This to furnish matter, that disposition, a third ornament. Words and Phrases are not sufficient to form a discourse; nor a Concordance, to make a Sermon: they do not therefore obstruct, they may conduce to the Work. A systematical Artist, is not the worst Artist. They that always despise helps to perfection may as much prejudice their own profiting, as those that continually rest in them.  
Best Editions, as latest are ordinarily, may be desirable, yet former are not to be rejected. So much judgement in dealing with the Bookseller as not to buy corrupt Copies at the rate of the best, but at a price vile as they are, is frugality in a Scholar: when to be skilled in the choice of Editions and withal so ice as to nauseat what is not most elegant in Print and Binding is not discretion in a poor Student, but Luxury.  
Few Books, well chosen, may be of much use, and the benefaction considerable: but because Scholars grow, these also range themselves into suitable Classes, and because Schools grow, they may spread. Were I able to pursue this Argument particularly and at large it might be perhaps with some Readers of use but would arise to a just Volume both beyond the bounds and besides the Nature of this short Essay. Some Heads of matter it may be nevertheless not amiss to draw over. Therefore consider we learning in its Birth, Growth, and Ripeness; and distribute we our Scholar into the Grammarian, the Linguist and Critic; both in Greek and Latin.  
In the first Class Grammar and Dictionary: each small, middling, or large. The large Dictionary would be Ety mological, as a Latin Scapula: Which method seems most natural to words and best complies with the memory of Children. Now whilst Sentences, Fables, Dialogues, Epistles are carrying on, the practice of Translation, for instance of English-Latine, Latine-English mutuasly best advance here with truth of interpretation. Noun and Verb joined, as congruously, so proper each to other: Particles rightly used fall in, and from these result a phrase lively, and in some sort elegant. Distinct helps to these are rather to be sought then refused, as Phrasiologies, Elegancies, Idioms, directions for the use of Particles, and the like Guides of Imitation. Of which form are Rolls of Names, Glosses enterlined, or side by side, literal Translations, in a word; Locks and Keys and Doors of Language not successless as may be attested by many Late-Learners especially to furnish fluent discourse upon all Subjects: the Greek yet wider in its Dialects and curious in its Tone.  
For a second Class, when style cometh to be formed, and the Scholar proceeding to the Classical Authors, is entered upon Theme and Verse, aids are here most needful. Select Orators, Poets, Historians fair and true printed at least, with the Life and Testimonies concerning the Author, with Arguments; and some with plain and useful comments: apart or in Bodies as the Greek and Latin Poets and Authors of the Imperial History. Abridgements too not to be disparaged. Match me L. Florus and Justine: these conduce not to the memory only but to the understanding also, while they bring actions disjoined in time and place under one view: accommodated to the narrow capacity of unripe judgements: especially when illustrated by Tables Genealogical, Chronological, Geographical; and what, perhaps, are beyond comments to studious Children profitable, would be had the approved Translations of Historians, Orators, and Poets into our own tongue: since by them a Child cometh at once to understand writers however abstruse equally with the man that had particularly at leisure informed himself in that Author.  
But for assistance in Theme. Invention is a hard Tax to be laid on the barren and unfurnished minds of Children. Therefore, let these busy Bees fall upon those flowery meads that have been fenced in by the industry of others; let the young merchant's trade in Wit's Commonwealth for an Apophthegm, an Example, a Similitude till they can set up a Staple at home: the wisdom of Proverbs is not to be neglected; and therefore Adages at large, or in their abstract would be procured. Symbols and Emblems are embellishments rather pleasing, when offered, then required. When ripe for Institutions of Oratory, there would be prepared a small, middling, and large Rhetoric: such are extant old and latter, 
a Demetrius Phalereus, etc.  Greek and Latin, till they arrive at Declamation and Panegyric. As to Poëtry; steps not unlike do well. A Poëtick Institution small, middling and large. Then authority for quantities in making a Copy of Verses. Their matter will be scant: enlarge it with Poëtical Fables and Fancies: these too moralised by 
b Apollodorus, etc. Palaephatus, etc. all three set out with Notes by the Learned and industrious Dr. Tho. Gale Master of St. Paul's School.  Mythological applications of such as have unlocked the mystery of Poësy. Their Language mean: Open to them the Storehouse of Poëtical phrase. Flowers of speech: proper Epithets: fashionable terms: and choice of Expression: all which are yet furthered by select Sentences, Epigrams, Epistles, Orations and pieces of History: thus the very Fragments of Sallust and Cornelius Nepos and Polybius may compare with the most complete Volumes of divers other Writers.  
A third Class of School-Books, to finish this Library, would be further serviceable, when the style being well formed, and the judgement grown to some maturity, the Scholar sticks no longer in the bare forms of speaking or composition of Sentences, but can so read whole Books as to compare one Book with another, and some parts with other parts of the same Book: (and yet be glad at times to have recourse to an Index or Synopsis) can raise higher observations from them for common Life, for Morals, for Policy. Here would he be helped in Antiquities, in Precedents of solemn Acts, in several Pieces of particular Eruditions as of Measures, Weights, Coins, Habits, and the Histories of other like Species; now begins he to discern Readins true from false: authorities genuine from supposititious: a skill that hath done the Church service in allegations of greater concern. Therefore would relish variant Lections compared diligently. He begins now to control time and place: Therefore would he be entered into rationaries of time, and Geographical Institutions the greater by the less: not unacquainted with Maps, and Globes, Wit cannot be taught: but may be provoked; and emulation ariseth betwixt persons chiefly where no great inequality is apprehended. Therefore modern Poets, Orators, Historians or other late Writers in Greek and Latin that have well imitated the Ancients would have their due place and respect; since it may deservedly move disdain in an ingenuous spirit, if that should be feasible to others of the Age wherein he lives, unto which he might not aspire.  
This Collection cannot everywhere be made in one day. If Gentlemen could once judge these public Schools worthy to be trusted with the Education of their Children (as in almost all Counties some are undoubtedly most fit) they would without difficulty be induced at the entering of their Son to bestow some useful Book, such as the Master should propose: this in process of time would furnish such places, at least with the more necessary helps; and leave a standing Treasure to the House; not to be despised by the Town. In divers late Foundations a room for Books hath been annexed to that of the School: elsewhere desks or Presses; for indeed without a certain Repository provided all utensils are exposed either to be lost or injured: nor are there Precedents wanting of this sort of gratification, if it might be conducing to provoke beneficence in this nature I would not pass over what hath fallen under my notice, more particularly, upon occasion. The Right Honourable my L. Crew was content to sever two Books from his own Library (they were Hen. Stephense's Thesaurus of the Greek Tongue in 4 Volumes, and Athenaeus his Dipnosophists with the Notes of Isaac Casaubone in 2 Volumes) and give them to the use of Northampton School and Master, at a sole request made by the means of that 
a Mr. Ferdinan. Archer.  School Master.  
One of the present Honourable Secretaries of State conferred a set of excellent School-Books such as the 
a Mr. Jo. Keen.  Master signify to have been there wanting; a decent respect to that Borough which had elected him their Burgess of Parliament.  
The Worshipful company of the Merchant Tailors of London at the motion of their worthy 
b Mr Jo. Goad.  Schoolmaster erected a fair Library, and replenished it with store of choice Books: some contributing 50 pounds others too very considerable sums towards it. These Books were through the great industry of the Master preserved as to the main in the fatal Conflagration of that City: and remain a monument of the Donors' munificence, still growing to the advantage of the Foundation. Other examples of Bounty in the same kind, not wholly unknown to me, though in themselves worthy of honour, I yet forbear here to specify, since multitude of instances rather overwhelm then excite the Reader: in a word, these gifts are a multiplied benefit to the Giver: when contributed by divers among many, they yet all remain entire to each particular.  
After due endeavours to provide, the next care is to preserve such Library. The Library-Keeper to be charged with a threefold Book the Register of Benefactors: the Catalogue of 
c To be called over by the Master or Usher some hour in th● Month or Year lest any be diminished or impaired.  Books: and a Note of what of them are lent out and on what day; the same to enter into these respective records what shall be needful: nor would he be required to open and shut the door at its hour daily without some salary: to engage his watchfulness and constancy. A piece or 2 yearly chargeable upon the community (for this occasion is incident only to Schools of some note) will betimes acquaint him with the just and advantageous connexion of Work and Wages. He would be taken out of the uppermost form: the more studious, faithful and discreet that will undertake such trouble: studious, that he be acquainted with the use of what he hath in charge: faithful, for it is a trust: and discreet, because on him chiefly would rest the execution of those Orders which should concern the Students or Books in the Library. Those Laws would not be so rigid as to debar all lending forth of any Book as if it disappointed others: since in the place but one can read the same Author at once, nor yet so lax as without occasion, without memorial, to part with them: and for time unlimited. Again they would not be so loose as to receive the wounds, or flourishes of every malicious or wanton pen: nor yet so strict as to prohibit the Master's occasional Animadversion: the very trace of whose hand is supposed to leave some useful direction.   

§. 42.  
Before the conclusion of this Discourse, it may perhaps fall under some observation, that in this loose range of enquiries, a most material point hath been omitted. Writing an universal advantage, ought certainly to have place in public and Free Schools. For though, perhaps, it be not the principal benefit of that Education, yet to write is in common life necessary, and to write well commendable. The truth is in petty Schools (and such are the most in every County) no small regard is to be had to it: that the Master bring his Scholar to a fair engrossing Secretary, or the neat Italian cursive: and if he be designed for the Law to acquaint him with the large exemplifying Court hand: and the lesser wherein old Rolls are written with their Abbridgements would be of singular use to him. I do not say that in the greater Grammar-Schools Masters can much attend to that business: yet there also is exacted that the Child bring his exercise written fairly, as he can, without blots, and without dashes, the marks of precipitate negligence. That censure heretofore ordinary as if a bad hand were the property of a good Scholar may seem to have received its original from such like occasion. 
a Quicquid Roma legis, quicquid studuistis Athenae, Quicquid Chaldaei dogmatis Indus habet; Quicquid Aristoteles divino pectore sensit, Cumque Platonistis Pythagorea cohors; Quicquid ad Elenchos arguto disputat ore Gallus, & in medicâ jactitat arte Ligur; Crescit ab auditu: prudens, docilisque periret Litera, si surdis auribus esset homo. Bernardus Sylvester. ex Cod. MS.  In former times, when Books were rare, Scholars took in notes their Masters Dictates: which that they might more readily dispatch they practised Abbridgements, and fell into deficient Characters. This habit improved the learning, but withal impaired the writing of those Ages. A legible hand endeavoured seems to carry with it some respect to the Reader: and easy flourishes, in their place add grace and distinction, sometimes dignity: but though it be useful for all to write, it is not therefore necessary for all to embellish: yet in Schools destined to farther Operations, the place for writing though it be not a distinct room, would be furnished with proper Instruments and so more solemn; and also for the general Works of Numeration. Whatever of this be needful as to the question in debate, none, I think, in these days are of opinion that the skill and practise of this Art can be too universally propagated: some may with reason fear it is by many perverted from its noblest end, when employed to the discouragement of other more excellent Arts and Sciences, or restrained in a manner wholly to the service of secular advantage.   

§. 43.  
Rather, to sum up what hath been alleged on the present occasion, whatsoever opinion any may have entertained concerning the multitude of Schools, the multitude of Scholars in England; before they pass any peremptory sentence to withhold their own Charity, or to discourage the benevolence of others upon this Subject, they would be desired withal seriously to consider several Millions of inhabitants in this Land, in the Plantations, in Factories abroad, the Subject of Pastoral cure: then to set before their eyes with such compassion, as the matter requires, the provision remaining for many Vicarages: afterwards to descend in their inquisition into the manifold Exigencies of the State, in offices, and Professions requiring men not illiterate. Whether they retain upon the Ministry of Justice in either Law: or upon the Profession of Physic, or other polite Arts. The Nation would be reputed, as it is, ample: the traffic copious: the course of Justice regular: the Cities, and Country populous. Now when youth is multiplied, should we diminish means of Instruction? when necessities enlarged, straighten supplies? Again on the other side they would be desired to measure the fluid Body of the Universities, by Degrees, as it is let out; and duly inform themselves whether the number of yearly proceeders upon an indifferent estimate may not rather seem underproportioned to the public occasions. At the best, I fear, they will find many raw Students for want of sufficient maintenance at the University thrust forth upon employment before any just proof of their proficiency given, who needs must bring weak Shoulders to the weightiest work: whereas Counties and Companies of the City before late calamities and various Troubles of the Age, have exhibited liberally to the support of divers at their Studies, what time the Nation enjoid a long peace, as Charities of this nature, if rightly considered, will be found to return upon any Church in fruits of sound doctrine, and an established judgement.  
But we have too many ecclesiastics already: there are among us who say so. And indeed do they who have suffered themselves to receive such persuasion know how many they are in Spain? how many they were in England in the reign of K. Hen. 8? do they reckon thus, that however revenue may vary, the same work abides?  
But have we not Free-Schools in almost every Market-Town? Did we depretiat benefactions received: we should be unthankful to God and unjust to the memory of many worthy Patriots, ornaments of their Profession, who have so far extended these provisions towards the preparing youth for business religious and secular: of which benefit, others more directly, but the whole Country in some measure partakes. Lastly we should ill deserve of that Faith, whose Charity we dishonoured. Yet may it be not unneedful to consider whether there be not still parts of the Land capable of new Foundations to good advantage. Let not any be offended at the seeming multitude of present Schools. Certainly we all bear no less affection to the common Christianity, than the Jews express to the Law of Moses, who have ordained 
a R Moses Maimon: in tract. de study Legis Cap. 2 Sect. 1.  that Schoolmasters be appointed in all Cities, and the inhabitants of that City wherein are no Scholars be excommunicated till they provide themselves of Schoolmasters. Farther, if upon this they take no care to get them any; then, that City to be executed; subjoining this reason that the world would not subsist if it were not for the babbling of little Schoolboys: as who should say, the world would fall from the Law and worship of God, and would fall into all dissoluteness of manners, were it not for that contemptible employment of preventing Children before they can well speak plain, with an early instruction in the principles of religion. To the erecting such new Foundations wheresoever they shall be found wanting, whosoever shall at any time consult upon the matter will be the rather induced, because many Free-Schools at proper distances disposed, not only minister help to the poor, but with all opportunity to the Rich of their children's institution at less charges than abroad. One word only concerning the old Foundations submit we to further regard: the Master's stipend is usually below envy: but what was well sufficient in the time of Donors though faithfully dispensed by Feoffees, in fact is now become incompetent of itself for his reasonable maintenance; it were for the honour and no less for the advantage of Towns, that he be so far encouraged, at least, as to be enabled to attend his Calling without distraction, especially if he carry on many to the University, such as perhaps in all Counties of England some Masters are found to be; so will this Church and Nation be blest with apt Instruments for service and the Age to come seasoned with a sense of their duty in all capacities.  
Upon these considerations referred always to better judgements, the memory of worthy persons the former Donors of these Charities hath been with us hitherto concluded precious: their honour stands inviolable: nor, till other circumstances appear, ought we to have a less grateful esteem for present Founders, Benefactors and Exhibiters to Students: but acknowledge it owing to their pious munificence that many are encouraged, who may promote the Peace of the Catholic Church: and be examples of constant loyalty to their Sovereign, and the Royal Family: in the prosperity of both which, the welfare of these Nations is contained.   
FINIS.